Dealing with Soccer Parents

Youth sports and soccer especially are more competitive then ever before! As if coaches didn’t have enough to deal with, they must also learn to coexist with over involved parents that think their child is the second coming of Pelé.

As an experienced soccer coach, I have learned that it is best to deal with overzealous parents early to avoid problems later on. Before the season, I would try to address the parents as a group and let them know that I should be the only one giving instructions during the game. I would also explain that the only comments that should be made should be positive and that it is not acceptable to yell at the Referees, opposing team, coaches etc.

Parents primary job is to support the team and all comments should be 100% supportive. Yelling at the Ref’s is especially bad form, because many of them are kids as well and everyone is trying to perform their best.

As a coach, it is your job to be in complete control of the team at all times. Set boundaries with parents early and them in check. It will help you keep your focus on coaching, developing classy players that respect the game and their opponents.