As I watched my son nervously dribble the ball at the free throw line during his basketball game, I felt a mix of anticipation and anxiety. At 12 years old, he has only been part of organized sports for a year, and adjusting to the rules and dynamics of the game has been quite the journey for him.
As he bounced the ball, I held my breath, aware that he isn’t one to seek the spotlight. He’s shared his worries about being in front of an audience, especially in those high-pressure moments. From the sidelines, his coach’s encouraging voice broke through my thoughts: “You’ve practiced for this! Stay focused, you can do it!” Although he missed the first shot, he turned to his coach with a smile and a thumbs-up, then glanced at me with a shrug before rejoining the game.
Just a year ago, he was terrified of tryouts, fearing he’d be overwhelmed by the other kids or humiliated for lacking experience. Thankfully, a friendly face from the league helped ease his nerves with some jokes and introductions. Once he was assigned to a team, his coach quickly recognized his apprehension. With patience, he worked with him week after week, offering encouragement and guidance, correcting his form, and fostering a sense of empowerment on the court.
This coach dedicated countless hours to running drills with my son and his teammates, often staying late despite his own busy life as a firefighter. And he did this without receiving a single penny in compensation. Yes, you read that right—he volunteered his time.
Reflecting on how far my son has come, I realize that my frustration over an inconvenient practice schedule pales in comparison to the commitment coaches make. So, when you receive those emails about practice times, remember that these coaches juggle their own jobs and families just like us. Therefore, instead of complaining, let’s make an effort to get our kids to practice on time.
Moreover, it’s essential to refrain from shouting at the coach during games. Not only does it create an uncomfortable atmosphere, but it also undermines the hard work and dedication they put into coaching. If you believe you could do a better job, consider stepping up as a coach next season.
Coaches teach the value of teamwork, and sometimes that means your child must adapt to the coach’s strategies instead of relying solely on your expectations. Allow them the space to learn different techniques, whether it’s how to shoot a three-pointer or play a defensive role.
I know I need to remind myself of this. I sometimes find myself frustrated by practice times or not volunteering to help with equipment or scoring. However, I must remember that these coaches are doing the best they can under challenging circumstances, often without resources.
My son’s confidence has grown tremendously in just a year, thanks to coaches who provide constructive feedback. When I see him practicing in our driveway because his coach suggested he work on his layup, I hold back from interfering with my own advice.
It’s vital to appreciate that your child’s coach is a volunteer, working hard to ensure kids can enjoy the benefits of organized sports. Consider bringing snacks for the team or helping with logistics. At the very least, take a moment to acknowledge their efforts; they deserve recognition for their hard work, which often goes unnoticed.
Coaches play a crucial role in teaching our children about teamwork and resilience. They share both the victories and losses with the team, so it’s important not to criticize them after a game. When your child succeeds, it’s the coach who celebrates alongside them, fully aware of the effort invested by each player.
So, next time you pick your child up from practice, remember to express your gratitude to the coach. Demonstrating respect for these individuals not only sets a positive example for your kids but also contributes to a healthier sports environment for everyone involved.