Greenfield Little League President Offers Sportsmanship Tips

Alright, first blog post ever, and I’m going to talk about something near and dear to everyone’s heart, and that is sportsmanship.

As a parent, coach and umpire, I have seen the good, bad and ugly in people. Here are a few ways that parents can create a positive sports culture so that children will have fun and learn positive character traits to last a lifetime.

Umpires

Believe it or not, most umpires do not make bad calls on purpose. I can see in professional sports where umpires could bet money on games or generally could dislike a pro player, but a youth sports umpire is usually there for one reason; they love the game and want to make a few bucks. Umpires do not ‘blow’ calls on purpose or make a bad call against your team; they are there to officiate the game, and just like the kids that are on the field, they do their best.

Umpires know that fans are part of the game and a few “ooos” and “ahhhs” will not frustrate a good umpire, but verbal assaults are uncalled for. Remember, umpires are human and do make mistakes, and the ones on the little league diamond are trying to do the best that they can.

Before and after the game

Your son or daughter wants to do a good job on the field, and some are under a lot of pressure to perform well. Before the game, let your child know that they should do their best and that whatever happens in the game, you are proud of them either way. During the game, let the coach coach the team. Lots of times during games you will see players look into the stand for their parents’ approval or disapproval on certain plays. Let the coaches correct player mistakes. Only say positive things from the stands; berating your child is not productive and may cause your child to become uninterested in the game.

After the game, thank the officials for doing a difficult job; after all, if it was that easy we all would do it. Don’t give advice to your child, instead ask what he or she thought of the game, and then listen. As they say, listening fills emotional tanks.

Coaches

It will not benefit anyone to talk negatively about your child's coach in front of your son or daughter. The best way to handle an issue with a coach would be to talk personally to them. Believe or not, lots of problems can be fixed with good communication and most coaches are able to take feedback well.

I must say after taking over as Greenfield Little League president several years ago, we have had very few issues with unruly fans and parents. I am honored to be involved with this organization to give Greenfield a ‘best in class’ sports organization. Hope to see everyone on the fields; Opening Day is May 7.