Lessons from the Sidelines

Over the years, I have gained many lessons from the sports sidelines and have found there are three types of parents at the games. The overzealous ones, the supportive group, and those who are casual bystanders —parents who are there for the obligation and social connection. I have floated in and out of all groups with the goal to be the best supportive parent I can be. 

These lessons and my time on the field sidelines or courtside have helped me form personal commitments and observations as a sports fan and parent. I am not perfect, but I try my best. 

1. Do not transfer my competitiveness to Anthony. My time as an athlete and my experiences were my experiences. Not Anthony’s. I hope for a positive experience for my kiddo. Yes, he wants to win, but he also has other priorities, such as being a team leader, the positive feeling of camaraderie, and cheering on his teammates. 

2. Be the biggest cheerleader. Cheer for all the kids, no matter what team they are playing on. Be an encouraging and positive force in the bleachers. Be amazed at the growth that you will see and the light shine in each of the players.

3. You can win from a loss. There are many valuable lessons from both winning and losing in sports. Many that I continue to fuel my daily actions and perspective. When you win, act with some humbleness as it was a team effort.  When you lose (and you will), you can bounce back stronger from the loss by focusing on what you learned from the game. What were your personal “wins”? Progress made? How can you build on that? How can you apply that in the future? 

4. The Power of Teamwork. As Michael Jordan once said, “There is no 'I' in team.” You will win together and lose together.  Bring out the best in each other. We each have a strength. Tap into it. Challenge and support each other along the way. Better to do it together while having fun.

I will remain strong in my dedication to good sportsmanship and will set a good example for my son. I may not like all the calls (refs are human too!) or plays that are called - It is all part of the game. Another game- another opportunity for one more lesson to be gained by this supportive parent cheerleader.