My kids don’t play hockey – so we aren’t exposed to “obnoxious-sport-parent-mentality” – that what I call parents who like to be unofficial coaches from the stands – who like to yell at 15 year old referees because they disagree with a call – that sort of parent (I’ve “heard” that “obnoxious-sport-parent-mentality” is often at hockey games…maybe they aren’t – care to call me out on this?…)
My kids participate in individual sports – out of their preference and our family schedule. However, this summer we registered in soccer.
This weekend was the final tournament. It was all good until the semi-finals…when some parents (by that I mean – Dads on the other team) decided to become sideline coaches rather than fans of their children. “C’mon REF!” “What are you DOING?!” “BOOOOOO” – it was on the brink of ugly.
The other team lost in an emotional sudden death (a penalty shootout). The other team’s kids yelled and cried at our team (I’m sure because they had seen their coach and parents do the same during the game).
There is something to be said about sportsmanship – on the field and in the stands. I’m all for cheering on your team – but not for calling out a 15 year old ref. or calling out your kid on the field.
Thing 1 asked me if I was proud they won. I said “I’m proud you worked so hard. I’m proud you met new friends. I’m proud you improved.”
I wonder what the obnoxious parents said to their kids…