Playing Time
As parents, you must remember that if your child goes out for a team that does
not stipulate a minimum amount of playing time for each player in every game,
there is no guarantee that your child will play a lot in the game. That's a
tough reality for kids, but sometimes it's even harder for you, as parents,
especially if you have high expectations for your child as an athlete.
What can you (or your child) do about it? Ideally, the question of playing
time should be addressed with the coach at the beginning of the season. If the
season is already underway, it may be helpful to schedule a meeting with the
coach to express your concerns. Ultimately, though, playing time is the decision
of the coach, and such a meeting may not resolve the situation. It does provide
a good opportunity to talk with your child about what it means to be a team
player, to give your best effort at each practice and game, and encourage them
to work hard to improve their skills, while impressing the coach with their
desire to play.
So what's the bottom line on playing time? It's your job as the sports parent to find out from the coach BEFORE the season begins as to what his or her policy is on playing time. That way, there won't be any misunderstanding once the season starts.