The Role of Parents
You as the parent are equally as important to your child’s positive lacrosse experience as the coach of the team. In order for your child to get the most out of playing lacrosse, it is important that you do the following:
1. Be supportive of your child by giving encouragement and showing an interest in his team. Positive reinforcement encourages learning and fun.
2. Attend games whenever possible. If you cannot attend, ask about your child’s experience, not whether the team won or lost.
3. Be a positive role model by displaying good sportsmanship at all times to coaches, officials, opponents and your child’s teammates. “Honoring the game” is an important part of what US Lacrosse represents. Help us by honoring the game in your behavior as a spectator. Respect the... Rules - Opponents - Officials - Team - Self
4. Let your child set his own goals and play the game for himself. Be your child’s “home court advantage" by giving him your unconditional support regardless of how well he performs.
5. Let the coach coach. Refrain from giving your child advice when he is playing. Also, let the coach know when he is doing a good job.
6. Respect the decisions of the referees or umpires. They are the authority on the field.
7. Read the rulebook. A full understanding of the rules will help you enjoy the game and educate others. (PARENT HANBOOK)
8. Get to know who is in charge. Meet with the leadership of the program, whether it is school sponsored or recreational, to discuss topics such as cost, practice and game scheduling, insurance coverage, emergency procedures, etc. Be a good consumer for your child.
9. Get involved—coach or assist, keep score, run the clock, line the fields, manage the equipment, raise funds, coordinate social events, develop an online picture book, help manage the team web site. These are just a few of the activities that parents can do to get involved and support the team. WE ALWAYS NEED VOLUNTEERS
10. Most importantly....Sit back and enjoy the game! Remember, lacrosse is played for FUN.
*US Lacrosse, Parent Handbook
https://www.uslacrosse.org/parents