Words of Wisdom For Youth Soccer Parents

Looking back in the archives, I found a post more of more than three years ago on the NJ Youth Soccer Forum. I have printed it verbatim (with exception of cleaning up some typos, spelling and grammatical errors). I don't know who wrote it, but every parent of a high level club soccer player shoud read it.

14001. SOME ADVICE FOR PARENTS by dallas71, 1/26/06 13:14 ET

Having played the game, coached and having kids in college, I can tell you this:

1) Great talent is God given;

2) determination and hard work get results for everyone else;

3) Pick up games in any sport develop skill;

4) Paid coaches HAVE AGENDAS other than your kid’s best interest;

5) PDA’s, Matchfits, etc are a waste of money until age 16. Friendships last a lifetime, play local.

6) Don't expect quality coaching in HS

7) Colleges do NOT have a lot of money for MALE soccer players. The sport will help your kid get into a school, but unless you are of LOW income, don't expect sports to "pay the way"

8) GRADES, GRADES, GRADES. If you are willing to spend thousands on 6, 8,10years of soccer prep, tournaments, etc, why would you not spend that money nurturing the brain! Speed reading courses, tutors, whatever it takes to achieve success in the classroom FIRST.

9) College coaches are no better than the local paid coaches. They BS recruits, parents etc. Very few are sincere.

10) It’s a great GAME. Let your kids love it as just that.

I agree with everything the writer says, although #9 may be an over-generalization and is unfair to many fine college coaches out there. #8 is of interest as I have seen parents spend a ton of money beyond the usual cost of travel soccer for personal trainers, yet some of these same parents won't spend a few dollars for an SAT prep course or math tutoring. And pay particular attention to #4, parents!