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PARENTS The support of parents is
crucial to the success of any program. The majority of parents whose children
participate in baseball, are well behaved. They realize that the principles
they instill at home remain valid when their children leave the house.
Parents also accept their responsibility as primary role models. Parents know
how to act in front of children, from birth to their teenage years, the
children expect us to lead by example. Unfortunately some parents
believe they have a role that is often greater than their knowledge and
understanding of the game. Baseball is a game for kids and in the actual
game, parents have no role. Some parents believe they have a role to
"remind" umpires of calls and "yell at the umpire" to insure
that calls won't be made against their team. At times, parents attempt to
influence the play of an opponent by making disparaging remarks. This type of
confrontational behavior has no place at a youth baseball game. The only
comments that should be even remotely allowed are positive comments. Let the
kids play the game and encourage them with comments such as "Way to go,
John" or "Nice try, Mark". It is also encouraged to compliment
your opponent with applause when they make a good play. Children need to know
and recognize that sometimes their best effort might not be enough. They need
to appreciate the ability of the opposition to understand their
accomplishment on the field. PARENTAL CODE OF CONDUCT 1. You are your child's number one
role model. Present the best example of character and behavior at all times. 2. Allow the coach to coach the team!
Be an enthusiastic, positive supporter of the coaches' work during games by
your actions and words. 3. Relieve the pressure of competition
by helping players enjoy practices and games. Players feel enough pressure on
their own. 4. Help the coach aid your player by
making certain they are on time and properly equipped for all practices and
games. 5. Treat all participants (players,
coaches, umpires, and spectators) with the same respect that you would want
for your own child. 6. Learn all you can about the game.
Before you attempt to interpret the Laws of the Game, be sure you know and
understand them. 7. Appreciate good play, no matter who
makes it. 8. Remember the game is for the
players and no one else. Do all you can to support them. Make baseball an educational opportunity. 9. Take an active interest how
participation is affecting your child as he/she grows into an adult. Help
them know how to win and how to find positives in a losing game. 10. Support the team, division, and
league, as they strive to give your child a positive experience. Volunteer
when you can. Say "thanks" to those who give their free time to the
sport of baseball. 11. Try to meet the parents of the
other team. We all want the same results for our kids. It is much harder to
disrespect someone if you know them. |