June 27, 2013
Responsible Parents conduct themselves by a code which the experts at Positive Coaching Alliance call "Honoring The Game".
To remember components of this code, use the acronym ROOTS, which stands for Rules, Opponents, Officials, Teammates and Self.
Members of the Responsible Sports community - parents and coaches - work hard to Honor The Game and teach the principles of ROOTS to our young athletes.
- Rules. Responsible Sport Parents refuse to bend or break the rules, even if you think you can get away with it.
- Opponents. Teach your children that when a whistle blows, help downed opponents to their feet. After games, win or lose, shake their hands, look them in the eye and congratulate them on a game well-played. And consider emulating the principle yourself by shaking the hands of the parents of the opposing players. Talk about setting a great example for your kids!
- Officials. Respect officials even when you disagree with them. It's tempting to join the chorus of criticism for the officials, but stop and think: what good can really come from this. And remind yourself: officials are people too, trying to do the best they can.
- Teammates. When you talk to your kids about ROOTS, teach them that they should never do anything to embarrass your team (on or off the field). Being a good teammate means also being a good person.
- Self. Live up to your own standards of Honoring the Game, even when others don't. If the opposing players, coaches or parents act out or somehow disrespect the game, remind your athlete that they still must not.
Visit ResponsibleSports.com for more useful tools for Honoring the Game!
