A Biblical Approach to Parenting Your Athleteಮಾದರಿ

## Coach, Are You Crazy? (Boundaries for Interacting with the Coach)

READY:

> “ Let everyone submit to the governing authorities, since there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are instituted by God.”–Romans 13:1

SET: Coaches coach; Parents parent.

Have you ever thought your child’s coach is crazy? The coach/parent relationship can be tricky. The coach ought to coach, and the parents should parent. Each should be given respect and freedom in their respective roles. In the context of the athlete’s sports experience, the parent is giving the coach a measure of authority and responsibility—meaning the coach is “boss” regarding their child’s sports. Ideally, parents and coaches work together to ensure the best possible experience for the child.

Unfortunately, parents and coaches often have differing ideas about what’s best. For better or worse, coaches significantly impact the athlete, leaving them with lifelong experiences that alter how they view sports as parents.

How do you engage with your child’s coach in a way that adds value to their sports experience? A different approach may be needed for unhealthy coaching/parent relationships. Here are some best practices when interacting with your child’s coach:

· Refrain from coaching your child from the bleachers---remember you’re the parent.

· Learn the coach’s policy before the season on setting appointments for conversations about your child.

· Refrain from making derogatory comments from the bleachers aimed at the coach.

· Avoid talking about and comparing other players when speaking with the coach.

· Encourage your child to speak first with the coach about any concerning issue.

Maybe the two most powerful words in an athlete’s life are “coach said.” Remember, the parent/coach relationship is like all relationships. Consider how you might add value to their coaching experience. Your child will benefit from this approach and will be grateful for it!

Before reading through the provided Bible verses, ask God to show you how to be more proactive in your relationship with your child’s coach rather than reacting to what you think is wrong.

WORKOUT:

James 1:19-20

Proverbs 15:18

Colossians 3:13

Romans 13:1

GO:

1\. James 1:19-20 tells us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak.” How might this Biblical principle make your sports experience more enjoyable for you and your family?

2\. Unfortunately, grievances often happen in the parent/coach sports environment. What guidance do you receive from Colossians 3:13 to apply to future grievances with the coach?

3\. What is the main takeaway from the Bible verses provided in this lesson?

OVERTIME: Practice Session

1\. Make a list of practical ways you might add value to the coach’s job.

2\. Initiate a conversation with your spouse or a trusted friend about what causes negative emotions in you during your child’s games. Get to the bottom of the real source---anger, fear, jealousy, bitterness---and confess it to God. Ask them to pray with you and for you.

Coach Are You Crazy Testimonial