re: Anyone do volunteer coaching for youth sports…does it ever get better?

Coached the kids for twelve years in a Dallas suburb. Football, basketball, baseball, softball & even soccer when I had to. Football was primary focus & assisted the others.

Yes, the parents can be the problem. Not much I can add to what has already been said here. Every group is different & you just have to deal with it. Served on the football BOD for six years, two as President. One year, the roommate was director of the cheerleaders, so we got all the phone calls. :-)

I learned a lot more from the kids then the parents over the years. In the end,it can be a incredibly rewarding experience. Some of those kids are now in their forties, and I grin when I run into one & are greeted with, “Hi Coach”.

While most are rec leagues, remember, the kids know wether they win or lose. The games are a lot more fun for them on the winning side.

One thing I have not seen mentioned; never underestimate what a kid can do. Some may need a little more attention, but all are capable of improving beyond your expectations.

Coach’m up and make it fun & competitive, learning the attributes of team sports. Who knows, even some of the parents may offer appreciation at the end of the season :-)