Expectations

In order to provide a fun and nurturing environment that allows our youth athletes to prosper, we respectfully request the following …

• Please keep things in context. Your children are special! They’re special to you and they’re special to us. But please keep in mind that they are still children. They’re growing physically and emotionally, and they’re not professional athletes. Allow them learn and grow in age-appropriate stages. Nobody will be awarded any university scholarships this season.
• Cheer for the team, but keep your emotions in check.  Do not yell at players (on either team) or the referees. You are setting an example for your children, whether you know it or not. Make sure it’s a positive one.
• Do not coach your child from the bleachers. They have plenty of pressure already. Let them make mistakes on the court – that’s how they learn. Don’t lecture your child after the game, especially if they’ve had a difficult one. A simple, “I love watching you play” will let them know that you’re proud no matter how they’ve played.
• Please respect your child’s coach. Our coaches are VOLUNTEERS who dedicate a great deal of their personal time and resources to helping your child. If you disagree with a coach’s decision, ask to respectfully discuss the issue with them in private. Griping and complaining – without looking to improve the situation – does nothing to make things better.
• Support your child's team. It takes a lot of hands to make a competitive team work - offer to help in whatever way you can.

• Have fun! Your teammates could end up being some of your very best friends. Enjoy it!
• Respect your coaches. Listen to your coaches when they give you feedback, and thank them afterwards. Don’t argue with their assessments or make excuses. Consider what they say.  Be coachable. They’re trying to help you! Thank your coaches after every practice.
• Respect the referees. You may not agree with every call, but reacting negatively will not make the situation better. Referees are doing the best they can and may not see every angle of every call. Without referees we would not be able to play competitive games. Be kind to them and thank them when you get a chance. They may even treat you better. <grin>
• Be a team leader. Everyone can be a leader. Encourage your teammates, especially those who are still learning to play the game. Cheer from the bench. Stay positive even when your team is losing. Bring everyone up instead of bringing them down!
• Be a role model. You are privileged to be part of a competitive team representing the club, and your actions – on and off the court – represent the organization and even Fredericton. Be an example for others!  Be humble when you win and accept defeat graciously when you lose.