After posting “A Players Message To Parents” I got sent a fantastic video and poem:
Football – Soccer the player’s game?
I dream of being like my heroes Messi, Hamm, Ronaldo, Heath, Ackers and Rooney, ah the fame
I dream that 80,000-90,000 fans are screaming my name,
I want to ask the stars, with all those people screaming your name….
How does this affect your game?
How do you think? –
When coach yells, the sidelines screams directions I just freeze and shrink
They say that soccer is the player’s game
I just can’t concentrate when the adults yell my name
I want to play where it’s nice and quiet
Not where a referee misses a call and induces a riot
I want to play where I’m free to make mistakes
Not when that happens the adult berates
The parents yell boot it, punt it, whack it clear
I just want to dribble keep the ball near
After all, the ball is the world’s favorite toy
I am not a grown man, just a small boy
Unisex -part They continue to yell and go absolutely wild
I’m not a grown up just a small child
People are yelling pass, pass, pass
Tell me dribble and I will be the top of my class
I want to dribble and touch the ball
I want to be free from the noise and try it all
Dad when you were young how and what did you play?
Did your parents come and watch you, what did they say?
The ride home is at times what I dread
Because what you say I should do, is not what coach said
Today is my day, to learn and embrace,
All that I can from my coach and teammates.
From me to you, and you to me,
the way forward is clear to see.
These six words mean the world to me.
Mom, Dad, there is no better way for you to say,
“I loved watching you play today.”
These words I hear, and never fear –
are true and kind and full of cheer. –
Kick around with me, show me what to do
Let me take part in pick-up games like you used to
I am still a young person not a professional player
I need support and praise not a nay-sayer
Thank my teachers and coaches for their time
They are trying to help my skills be sublime
Praise my effort, grit, determination and will
Let me develop, try new things, gain a skill
Sit back, relax, enjoy this ride
This is my journey let me fill you with pride
==
Chris Panayiotou is Developmental Director of Coaching Virginia Rush Soccer Club and Developmental Technical Director Rush Soccer.
-End
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