" Players Play!
Coaches Coach!
Parents Cheer!
Referees Ref! "

Coach Martin stresses the importance of parents not coaching from the stands and adding to the confusion of a young athlete trying to find their way. This topic hit home with me!! Immediately I thought back to the many times I’ve had to deal with extremely vocal parents in the crowd. Not that parents shouldn’t voice their opinion or concern, but not in a public arena and certainly not during a game.

Coach Martin went on to clarify why he and so many other coaches have an issue with these situations. First, he addressed the issue that most youth coaches and referees aren’t getting paid or making very little at all. Second, they are sacrificing their time that is usually spent with family just to make sure you can play! Third, they are dealing with young athletes, not professionals, so their understanding of how to manage between coaches’ instructions and their parents’ instructions is very difficult.

Coach Martin accepts the issues that come with such a highly regarded coaching position. Coach and his peers acknowledge the financial benefits that come with being great at what they do. In this case, he is speaking up for the lower level coaches that do not have a voice. His stance on the subject is very much appreciated by myself, and thousands of coaches around the world. We have all endured these challenges!

This message should serve as a helpful reminder to have more understanding and patience the next time a youth player, or youth coach or referee makes a mistake or does something you disagree with.