Coaches and players are the center of the sports world. It’s simple: the coaches prepare, and the athletes perform. However, after many games this season, some observers have noticed a big spotlight on the parents. Parents may be the secret key to unlock sports success in every situation, at least in their own minds.
From injecting thoughts into the game to arguing with referees, parents know it all. Normally, people expect the parents to come to the game and support their child along with his/her teammates. They cheer, bring signs, take pictures, etc. However, most parents are there to “coach” from the stands. They seem to think they know more than the coach who has been through every tryout, practice, late-night film, and practice planning.
As the parents come flooding in from the doorway to the gym, the ruckus begins. Yelling and shouting come from all different directions: “Pass it NOW,” “Ref, get some glasses,” “Take him out, he’s gonna lose the game for us.” They analyze and critique every athlete on the court as if they will be going D1 tomorrow morning. Bets are being placed on the color of jerseys and who will be on offense first. Sometimes it feels like the parents might as well get a microphone and announce the entire game on national television, though most are probably just catching up on family gossip.
In conclusion, players should be thankful for the energy parents bring to the stands. Some might jokingly suggest parents bring their own game plans to practice while coaches watch in amazement. Of course, coaches still run the team, but the parents certainly make it more entertaining. With megaphones in hand and a scoreboard app to keep the score table accountable, parents are the real sideline MVPs… at least according to themselves.
