Parents/spectators have a great influence on children’s enjoyment & success in football.  All children play football because they first & foremost love the game – it’s fun.  It is important to remember that however good a child becomes at football within your club it is important to reinforce the message to parents/spectators that positive encouragement will contribute to:

Ø       Children enjoying football.

Ø       A sense of personal achievement.

Ø       Self-esteem.

Ø       Improving the child’s skills & techniques.

A parent’s/spectator’s expectations & attitudes have a significant bearing on a child’s attitude towards:

Ø       Other players.

Ø       Officials.

Ø       Managers.

Ø       Spectators.

Ensure that parents/spectators within your club are always positive & encouraging towards all of the children, not just their own.

Encourage parents/spectators to

Ø       Applaud the opposition as well as your own team.

Ø       Avoid coaching the child during the game.

Ø       Not to shout & scream.

Ø       Respect the referee’s decision.

Ø       Give attention to each of the children involved not just the most talented.

Ø       Give encouragement to everyone to participate in football.

Ensure that parents/spectators within your club agree & adhere to your club’s Code of Conduct & Child Protection Policy.