You may find this a surprising question. Why would anyone want parents to be banned from their children’s sports games? The Aces aren’t the first to ask the question. There are sports associations that are also thinking about it. Why? Because incidents of physical and verbal violence have occurred in recent years… in the stands! And that’s without mentioning parents who put too much pressure on their children and cause them stress. Let’s look at the PROS and CONS of banning parents from their children’s sports games.
The arguments FOR
Limits bullying and violence
Some parents insult referees, other parents and even young players. They create a very unhealthy climate and set a bad example. They do not encourage sportsmanship at all. These actions sometimes extend outside the sports field. Banning the presence of parents would solve this problem.
Reduces pressure
The aggressive shouts of encouragement, the accusatory looks when the child performs less well. The criticism and comments after the game. Some children are under a lot of pressure from their parents who seem to forget that sports are meant to have fun. No parents = less stress.
Makes the work of referees and coaches easier
Adults who are involved in sports leagues often face bullying or frequent criticism from aggressive parents. Because of this, some organizations have difficulty recruiting enough people as coaches or referees.
The arguments AGAINST
Unfair to the majority of parents
Why deprive the majority of parents of the pleasure of seeing their child having fun because a minority of people behave badly? For most families, sports games are an enjoyable activity.
Good for self-esteem
Admit it! It’s so nice to see our parents’ eyes light up when we make a great play. Or when they see that we’re improving. For some kids, the sports field is where they feel like they’re excelling. And it’s important for parents to see that.
Nourishes the parent-child relationship
The kind words after the games, the tips for improving, the comforting hugs after a defeat. All this allows children to create a nice bond with their parents and to talk about something other than routine and homework.
By Caroline Bouffard
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