re: How does one be a non-neurotic soccer dad?

From watching my father act during my sister’s experience, here’s are your jobs as a youth sports parent:
- Practice and Encourage your kid. They still need to develop their skills and keep pace with the rest of the pack. When you help them, and when they continue to spend time, they will grow. Suggest going on a trip just to go see a soccer match. If this is something they want to do, they aren’t going to say no.
- In games your job is to cheer all of the kids on, even when they screw up. Be the Dad the other Dads look up to. Don’t point out mistakes, you’re just going to start fights.
- In regards to Coaches, you have two options: Your kid is on the team, or he’s not. Just make sure to read the contract and make sure your money won’t continue to go to the team if your child is injured or everyone decides to leave the team. Don’t bother arguing, you are dealing with an immovable object. If you want to get somewhere with him, hit it where it hurts (his wallet) and don’t forfeit your only option.
- Just remember that leaving the team is ultimately your kid’s choice. If he isn’t having fun, or isn’t playing, it may be time. But he’s likely there with friends he doesn’t want to betray.