From staff reports

Like so many outrageous and extreme events, the trial recently of a Boston parent who allegedly killed another during a youth hockey disagreement is likely to spark two thoughts.

Wednesday, January 16, 2002

Like so many outrageous and extreme events, the trial recently of a Boston parent who allegedly killed another during a youth hockey disagreement is likely to spark two thoughts. The immediate reaction is, &uot;It couldn’t happen here.&uot; The second is to wonder about less-extreme, but still disruptive parental behavior – which could and does happen in Albert Lea and the Freeborn County area – as it does across the nation.

Parents are the glue that hold together youth sports, particularly non-school youth sports. They are also the wedge that breaks them apart. Concerned – perhaps overly concerned – about their children and wrapped up in the moment, parents are infamous for their verbal tirades against coaches, officials and other players.

While reactions are almost never as extreme as those of the parents whose fight is making national news, it takes little but a few cross words to spoil the sports experience for young players and coaches alike.

Any parent who has had a child involved in sports knows the almost-overwhelming compulsion to offer advice, to push with every fiber for their youngster’s success. That desire leads most parents to productive service as volunteer coaches, as concession stand workers or fund-raisers. It can also lead to some regrettable actions, usually verbal.

The National Alliance for Youth Sports, a non-profit national organization, has long been involved in encouraging appropriate parental behavior, and has developed guidelines for parents who are involved in youth sports. Among them, NAYS suggests parents vow that:

– I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, and officials at every game, practice or other youth sports event.

– I will place the emotional and physical well being of my child ahead of my personal desire to win.

– I will insist that my child play in a safe and healthy environment.

– I will support coaches and officials working with my child, in order to encourage a positive and enjoyable experience for all.

– I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free from drugs, tobacco and alcohol and will refrain from their use at all youth sports events.

– I will remember that the game is for youth- not adults.

– I will do my very best to make youth sports fun for my child.

Most parents will quickly recognize those guidelines as good advice.