Portage Rocket Football Youth Program
I pledge to use positive encouragement to fill my child’s Emotional Tank, because athletes do their best when their “Emotional Tank” is full. I understand that less than 1% of youth sports participants receive college scholarships and that the top three reasons kids play sports are a) to have fun, b) to make new friends, and c) to learn new skills. I understand that the game is for the players, and I will keep sports in the proper perspective.
I pledge to reinforce the ELM Tree of Mastery with my child (E for Effort, L for Learning and M for bouncing back from Mistakes). Winners are people who make maximum effort, continue to learn and improve, and do not let mistakes, or fear of making mistakes, stop them. I understand that mistakes are an inevitable part of any game and that people learn from their mistakes. I understand that children are born with different abilities, and the true measure is not how my child compares to others, but how he/she is doing in comparison to his/her best self.
I pledge to “Honor the Game.” I understand the importance of setting a good example for my child. No matter what others may do, I will show respect for all involved in the game including coaches, officials, players, opponents, and opposing fans. I understand that officials make mistakes. If the official makes a “bad” call against my team, I will Honor the Game and be silent.
I pledge to refrain from yelling out instructions to my child. I understand that this is the coach’s job. I understand that games are chaotic times for children trying to deal with fast-paced action and respond to opponents, teammates and coaches. I will limit my comments during the game to encouraging my child and other players for both teams.
I pledge to refrain from making negative comments about my child’s coach in my child’s presence. I understand that this implants a negative seed in my child’s head that can negatively influence my child’s motivation and overall experience.
I pledge to refrain from the use of social media to make negative comments about the PRF program, team, coach, official, and/or player using any means of social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, etc). If violated, I understand that PRF reserves the right to suspend and/or remove any individual(s) from the team, program, rented facilities, and/or events in order to ensure the safety of its members and uphold its mission.