As the spring season approaches I just wanted to touch base regarding side line behavior and how it relates to your own child, the other players and the overall perception of the club.

Obviously this issue has been addressed before and as always needs refreshing as we head into an eagerly awaited spring season. Emotions are running high and a will to succeed for our child and team sometimes overwhelms the overall objective of what we really should be looking at.

The first thing I would like to eliminate is sideline coaching from the parents side. This only adds to the confusion of the kids and is usually the exact opposite of what the coach is asking of the player. Please take advantage of your position as SUPPORTER of the team and child. Enjoy the occasion and enjoy watching your daughter learn from her experience on the field.

Too often a child is so scared to not make a mistake or afraid of upsetting her parents that she never wants the ball and therefore never gets any better. As a parent your job is to cheer, encourage and support your child and team mates. There is no room for negative comments, moans and groans and abuse from the side line.

Again, enjoy the day, and remember the world cup is taking place in Germany, not Clearcreek! Therefore, as long as our players are working hard and getting better the result of the game is not the determining factor.

Secondly, I ask that you bring your child ready to play and on time. We have guidelines within the club regarding missed practice and late for game scenarios. However, I do not know many 9 year old girls driving around the city. Therefore, time, and time management becomes a parent issue. Please do not sacrifice your daughters playing time.

Finally, please respect the referee's decision. I agree that they are not always right, but who is. The game is not perfect, nor is your child, nor am I. So why we expect the referee to be perfect is beyond me! Allow the coach of the team to protest decisions in the appropriate manner.

Remember, you represent the Cardinal Soccer Club and your actions reflect upon the club. Therefore lets try our best to stay calm, not get involved with the other parents and become the model citizens and supporters of the game that we should be.

Thanks and have a great season.

Jon Pickup
Director of Coaching
GSE Cardinal Soccer Club