The mission of the SVFLC is to promote the sport of lacrosse for the youth in Skagit Valley in order to develop their playing skills, to teach and encourage good sportsmanship, and to foster healthy competition.
You, the parent, are equally as important to your child's positive lacrosse experience as the coach of the team. In order for your child to get the most out of playing lacrosse, it is important that you do the following:
Be supportive of your child by giving encouragement and showing an interest in his or her team. Positive reinforcement encourages learning and fun. Try to maintain a ratio of 5 positive statements (compliments, positive recognition) for each negative statement (criticisms, corrections) in your comments to your player.
Attend games whenever possible. If you cannot attend, ask about your child's experience, not whether the team won or lost.
Be a positive role model by displaying good sportsmanship at all times to coaches, officials, opponents, and your child's teammates. "Honoring the Game" is an important part of what US Lacrosse represents. Help us by honoring the game in your behavior as spectators.
Let your player set their own goals and play the game for themself. Be your child's "home court advantage" by giving your unconditional support regardless of how well they perform.
Let the coach coach. Refrain from giving your child advice when he or she is playing. Use positive reinforcement with your child's coach. Let the coach know when they are doing a good job.
Respect the decisions of the referee. This is an important part of honoring the game. Your child will pay more attention to how you act than to what you say.
Read the rulebook. A full understanding of the rules will help you enjoy the game and educate others.
Get to know who is in charge. Meet with the leadership of the program to discuss topics such as costs, practice and game scheduling, insurance coverage, emergency procedures, etc.
Get involved! A great way to support your child's lacrosse experience is by becoming a volunteer for the program. Some of the ways you can get involved: keep the scorebook, run the clock, line the fields, manage equipment, chaperone trips, become a team manager, etc.
Sit back and enjoy the game. Remember, lacrosse is played for FUN.
