| In a previous article, I talked about the importance of | | | | the big picture is that we are developing individuals first, |
| identifying your "Coaching Philosophy." When | | | | soccer players and athletes second. It can be argued |
| considering your own philosophy or set of values, did | | | | that coaches who reflect good sportsmanship and |
| you contemplate good sportsmanship? Have you | | | | class produce higher quality people. |
| thought of instilling in your team the concept of playing, | | | | And don't forget about your fans-parents and family |
| winning and losing with class? I present these questions | | | | members. Most recreational soccer programs now |
| because most recreational coaches at one time or | | | | have rules that penalize-yellow or red cards--the |
| another have been exposed to, victim of, or participant | | | | coach for unsavory spectator behavior. As coaches |
| in an act of poor sportsmanship. | | | | we have personal relationships with most of our |
| In the book The Soccer Coaching Bible, I recently read | | | | parents. Communicate clearly to them what is |
| Chapter 2 and it talks about "Competing with Class." | | | | expected or unacceptable spectator behavior |
| The authors promote the concept that teaching and | | | | towards other teams, officials and fans. This should be |
| maintaining class is more important than winning. If you | | | | done at the beginning of the season and periodically |
| think about it logically, it makes good sense. Because | | | | during practice during the season. |