What our kids want.
Last fall, I administered a survey to 130 high school student-athletes who attended the Vermont Student-Athlete Leadership Conference. These students represented a diverse cross-section of Vermont high schools, including larger urban institutions and smaller rural communities. When asked, “When you imagine safe playing environments in athletics, what words come to mind?” the response was clear: above all, Vermont high school student-athletes want their athletic experiences to be FUN.
After all, isn’t that a universal desire? No one wants to invest their time and energy in something that doesn’t bring them joy. Additionally, these athletes expressed a strong desire to feel part of a supportive community, where belonging and camaraderie are just as essential as physical performance. These student-athletes also want coaches who care about them. The emphasis on fun and community underscores the need for athletic programs to prioritize both the emotional and social well-being of student-athletes, fostering environments where they can thrive holistically.
Here’s my ask to our fans, parents, and community…
What can you do to ensure that our hardworking student-athletes have a fun environment to play in?
Cheer positively. Say things like, “Great job!” or “What a catch!” "Don’t give up!" "You’ve got this!" and one of my favorites from Dr. Joe Sanfelippo “Give yourself a chance!” You are the tone setter, set it positively for you, and your team and be the example for those around you.
Cheer for the whole team. Use phrases like, “Go Blue!” or “Yeah Cats!” “What a play!” rather than singling out individual players. Some kids do not like to be singled out with praise and even less so with criticism.
Always remember, we are here for the student-athletes. The reason we left work early is for our kids, keep the focus on them.
Leave your day behind. Try not to carry the stress of your day to the field. Take a deep breath, unclench your jaw when entering the venue, and start a new part of your day.
Treat the athletic administrator, workers, and site with respect. They’ve also worked a full day before the game. Help them by having a positive attitude, and cleaning up after yourself. Even if it’s not your trash, grab it and throw it out.
Find your community in the stands. Connect with other supportive fans and build a network that endorses good sportsmanship and positive fan experiences. It takes all of us to ensure fun, so create a fan section that does not tolerate bad behavior.
Volunteer for the team by signing up for snacks or other opportunities that arise. Reach out to your coach proactively and offer support.
Talk to your student-athlete about how they want you to show up. How do they feel when they hear you in the stands? Ask yourself, am I embarrassing them with my behavior?
Leave the game at the field. On the car ride home, focus on the positives. Offer bigger-picture takeaways before providing any coaching or focusing on one play or one moment. “I was proud when I saw you help up the other player.” “I saw that you were supporting your team when you were on the bench.”
What positive can you find even if the game didn’t go their way? If your athlete made mistakes, they already know. Use the car ride to build them back up.
Need more tips and tools? Check out: https://thrive.psu.edu/blog/parental-involvement-in-youth-sports-and-activities/
