Remember parents, it’s only a game
The other day I received a picture of a sign that was placed on most sports fields for children in France. The fields that host matches between youngsters.
Parents of children may remember spending time along the sidelines or in the bleachers to encourage them.
I remember being very proud of our youngest in her T-ball uniform and I never minded her sitting down making daisy chains while the rest of the team were running the bases; she was happy handing daisy chains to those making it to home base!
But not all parents thought that was cute and shouted at her to pay attention to the game, but were quiet when I shot them one of my less nice glances. She loved playing ball, but wasn’t that competitive. She loved playing in the field, meeting up with her friends, giggling and once in a while throwing the ball and actually hitting it!
I didn’t mind, it was her game!
Then one day I took some relatives to watch a hockey game at Kerry Park Arena and was shocked to hear the language used by one of the parents/coaches. When I asked him to refrain from using these derogatory remarks I was told to sit somewhere else if I don’t like it! Well, I never…! The usher came to resettle us far away from a possible explosive situation. But what is the use of yelling at your child, calling him lazy and worse? Does this really build up his/her self-esteem to belittle him or her in public? Honestly! The picture I referred to is a sign addressing just this issue. It reads translated into English:
DAD DON’T FORGET
I’m only a child
It’s only a game
I’m here to have fun
This is my match
These are our friends
The referee is a human being
This is not a World Cup event!
I love you dad!
I hope that we remember this once the fields are dry enough to play T ball, Little league, Baba Ruth or Lacrosse and field hockey.
Judy van der Boom
Mill Bay