Parents who have a hard time controlling themselves at games

Do you know a parent who has a hard time controlling themselves at children's sporting events? John O'Sullivan, Founder of Changing The Game Project, tells parents exactly what to do to control sideline behavior.
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Parents who have a hard time controlling themselves at games

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So, if you're a parent who has a hard time controlling yourself on the sideline, here is an interesting bit of information. When I traveled around the country and I speak to kids and I say, "What would you like your parents to say to you during a game on the sideline?" The number one answer by far is nothing. And then if you have to say something, make it positive and please, please, please, whatever you do, don't yell at the referee. So, if you're a parent that cannot control yourself on the sideline, think of these two things. Number one, what is your son or your daughter's memory of sports going to be? Is it going to be of a positive experience or is it going to be you fighting with a referee or an opposing coach or an opposing parent because that's what they'll remember. And then number two, I think there's a direct correlation between how close you are to the sideline and how much you feel compelled to yell at a referee or the opposing players or your own kids. So, what I say to people is if you can't be quiet standing 5 yards from the sideline, move away 10, move away 20, move away 50. But the farther way you get, the less you will say and I can pretty much guarantee you that your kids will appreciate the fact that you are not saying anything all.

Do you know a parent who has a hard time controlling themselves at children's sporting events? John O'Sullivan, Founder of Changing The Game Project, tells parents exactly what to do to control sideline behavior.

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John O'Sullivan

Founder of Changing The Game Project

John O’Sullivan founded the Changing the Game Project in 2012 in order to help parents, coaches and youth sports organizations create a more child-centered sports experience for our young athletes. John is a former collegiate and professional player, and worked for 20 years on the youth, high school and college level as a coach and club Technical Director. He holds a USSF A License, NSCAA Advanced National Diploma, and a US Youth Soccer National License. His blog is now one of the most popular youth sports websites in the US, and he has been a featured presenter at TEDx Bend Oregon, IMG Academy, and this week at the NSCAA Convention. The Changing the Game Project provides live and online parent and coaching education workshops, webinars, and consulting services.

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