Join the movement to Make Youth Soccer Better by signing the Sideline Pledge.
We all know that our youth soccer sidelines need to be improved. Undeniable, right?
There are three types of sideline behavior: Supportive, Distracting and Hostile. Supportive behavior is encouragement at the appropriate times (not while the child is in the middle of performing).
Good Job! Keep Working Hard!
When we ask parents what needs to change, the conversation usually shifts to the hostile behavior. Yes, of course - we must absolutely end hostile behavior through strong club and league policies for referee (and sadly player) abuse.
But what about the much more prevalent distracting behavior on the sidelines?
What would happen to the experience our children have while competing if well intentioned spectators stopped telling them what to do?
Shoot! Pass! Throw it now! Get wider!
This type of distracting behavior must stop too.
We've created The Sideline Project to see what happens when parents and coaches learn the difference between supportive and distracting behavior.
Do your part to make youth soccer better by watching our short educational pledge video, reading the pledge and adding your name to our virtual pledge wall.
