What I Ask From Player Parents

A positive team environment takes communication, support, and shared expectations. This post outlines a few simple things I ask from player parents throughout the season, including RSVPs, sideline behavior, communication, and helping players make team-first decisions.

6/26/20262 min read

I have been very blessed with great player parents during my time at Sporting City — no pressure — but I still think it is important to be clear about expectations early.

A team works best when players, parents, and coaches are all pulling in the same direction. My goal is not to create a long list of rules or make anything more complicated than it needs to be. It is simply to make sure everyone understands the little things that help the season run smoothly and create the best possible environment for the players.

Most of this comes down to communication, positivity, and trust. If we can stay organized, support the players the right way, and keep the focus on their growth and enjoyment of the game, we will give them a much better experience.

With that in mind, here are a few things I ask from player parents throughout the season.

- Practice RSVPs -
Practice RSVPs help me plan practice. I spend a lot of time thinking through sessions, and the number of players attending makes a big difference in what we can do.

I can always adjust when the numbers are different than expected, but it does throw things off. I completely understand that everyone has a lot going on, and I also understand that things come up at the last minute. But if your player cannot make practice, please let me know as far in advance as possible.

- Game RSVPs -
For games, I usually check RSVPs on Monday and do any necessary follow-ups. If anything changes between Monday and game time, please send me a direct message. I do not get an alert when a PlayMetrics RSVP changes, so a text or direct message in PlayMetrics is the best way to make sure I know.

- No Financial Incentives for Goals -
Please do not give financial incentives for scoring goals. I can promise you that every player already wants to score a goal more than anything. A financial incentive is not going to make them try harder to score, but it can make them try to take on three defenders instead of finding the open teammate.

We want players making the right soccer decision, not chasing the reward.

- Sideline Expectations -
Please always be respectful to all players, coaches, and families.

Please do not engage with the referee. They are often young, sometimes around 15 years old, and they are doing the best they can. They will make mistakes, just like players and coaches do.

Please avoid coaching from the sideline. That includes things like yelling “shoot,” “pass,” “dribble,” or telling players where to go. I know it comes from a good place, but it can be confusing for players when they are trying to process the game and listen to their coach.

What I need from you more than anything is positivity and encouragement. Cheer for the players. Praise the effort. Celebrate good decisions, hustle, teamwork, and resilience.

- Questions or Concerns -
I am always willing to have conversations about your player, their development, or anything you are unsure about. The only thing I ask is that those conversations happen at the right time. Right after a game is usually not the best time, especially if emotions are high. If you have a question or concern, please reach out and we can find a time to talk.

My goal is the same as yours: to help your player grow, improve, enjoy the game, and have a great experience with the team.

Contact

Questions? Reach out anytime.

Email

Support@AB3Soccer.com