DEALING WITH TOURNAMENTS.....

Tournaments can be a very educational and fun experience for all involved. However, they do seem to be rather stressful, so here are some ideas to help you get through them -

1- It's a special event for the players, so make sure it stays fun. Simply think of it as a chance to play against other teams and learn from their styles of play.

2- Treat tournament games like regular season games. If you change much, the players will have a hard time adjusting. Also, take the time to enjoy yourself and make sure your players do the same.

3- Always remember that you are representing your club or association, and behave accordingly. Do you want your team responsible for giving your club a reputation for playing dirty or playing clean?

4- Read the tournament rules and know what is different from regular play. Some common changes are time lengths, substitutions, and number of players on the field (for younger teams).

5- Know if a points system or a bracket system is being used, and know how it works. Know what happens in the event of a tie. If you are unsure of something, ask a tournament official.

6- Always double check your game times and field assignments, typos do occur, as do last minute changes.

7- Have a predetermined location for the team to meet thirty minutes to an hour before game time. Make sure everyone (parents, players, and coaches) knows what's going on, and what's expected of them.

8- Don't count on anything being how you want it. Concessions or bathrooms may be closed or non-existent, so don't depend on them.

9- The coach should always arrive extra early, and don't be surprised if there are delays. Don't depend on them, but be ready to use the time constructively if they occur.

IT'S ONLY A GAME!!!!!
HELP PUT YOUR KIDS COMPETITION IN PERSPECTIVE.
   
Your child is in the league championship game, and there's a big crowd.. She slept well last night and was in a good mood at breakfast, in fact, she can't wait until the game starts. You? You are a nervous wreck!
 

Does this happen to you? It's not uncommon for parents to get emotional over their child's game, and it's nothing to be ashamed about. But it does indicate a need to rethink what is truly important about soccer and competition in your child's life - and yours. First, make sure that you're watching the matches for the right reasons: to enjoy the games and to encourage your child's participation in a team sport. If you are watching primarily to see your child excel or win, your setting unreasonably high expectations. When they are not met, your child will sense your disappointment, and that's unfair responsibility to place on any youngster. If you get uncomfortably nervous watching a game, take deep breaths and realize that children play for reasons that parents often forget...to learn, develop skills, enjoy camaraderie and have fun. Are you more anxious than your child? You will contribute more to his or her pleasure by relaxing and enjoying the game. It is natural to get excited on the sidelines, of course. Yell as much encouragement as you like. It's good for your child to see you appropriately involved in the game. Praise any good play, whether by your child or another. But no matter how enthused you are, you may need to curb some emotions. The following tips may help you:

DON'T GIVE INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE SIDELINES...
It is the coaches job to make calls, not yours. If you interject, you will only confuse the players and create conflict between you and the coach. You may even embarrass your child.

NEVER YELL SLURS AT THE REFEREE...
This will negatively affect your child. Referees make mistakes! Nobody is perfect. This is a part of the game. Learning to accept authority is one reason your child plays sports.

DO NOT BERATE PLAYERS IN AN EFFORT TO MOTIVATE THEM...
To influence others, base your efforts on their needs, not your emotions.

Article by Howard J. Rankin Ph.D.