Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Parent's Code of Conduct
by Rick Wolff, Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Youth Sports Expert
FOLLOW THE GOLDEN RULE - Always treat others (coaches, parents, officials and players) the same way that you would want you and your child to be treated. Set the example by showing respect, dignity, and total sportsmanship at all times.
ACT YOUR AGE - Youth basketball is for the kids. If you find yourself becoming too emotionally involved in what's happening on the court, take a step back and relax. Remember, your childhood is over. Give the young players the freedom to enjoy theirs.
BE RESPONSIBLE - Get your kids to practice and games on time. Make sure they have their uniform and sneakers. Help them eat and drink right before, during and after the game. The more your children see you act responsibly, the more they will do the same.
BE SEEN, NOT HEARD - Nothing is better for a young player than having their parents on hand to watch them play. And nothing is worse for a player than hearing a parent booing, taunting, screaming or making commetns at, or about, players, coaches, fans or officials (that includes your team as well as your opponent). Offer applause and cheers of encouragement for both teams following a good play or a great effort, otherwise keep quiet.
IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE FUN - So help make it that way. Keep smiling. Encourage enjoyment and participation over results. If it's not fun, something's wrong.
MOTIVATE THROUGH CONFIDENCE - Try and identify a positive from every game or practice to help build confidence. A young player's sense of achievement is the greatest motivator.
DON'T QUESTION AN OFFICIAL'S CALL - You may not agree with a call, but it's not your job (or the players or coaches either) to officiate the game. Never should an official's call be argued by anyone. Accept the call and move on.
IF YOU MUST, TALK WITH THE COACH AFTER THE GAME - Or better yet, wait until the next day if you have an issue to discuss about how the coach is running the team. Let the heat of the moment pass. Never make a scene in front of the team as it's embarassing for you, your children and the coach. And chances are, nothing will get resolved.
PUT WINNING AND LOSING INTO PERSPECTIVE - Games have winners and losers. Keep reminding your child about this reality and the need to deal with both outcomes. Young players should avoid getting to cocky when they win and too upset when they lose.
AVOID THE POST GAME ANALYSIS - Don't analyze your young player's performance following every game. If you do, chances are they will avoid talking to you at all after games, or worse yet, not want you at the games at all. Let your children come to you for advice. It will have more of an impact than you going to them.
