Athletic events begin this week and with that comes a question: What are parental areas of focus?

WMC varsity soccer coach David Hulings handed out this information at the soccer teams' parent meeting last week and I felt it was a good idea to share with all parents of WMC athletes:

(1) Release your athlete to their own experience. Ask them three questions: (a) Why they want to play; (b) What they think their team role should be; (c) What they want from the season.

(2) Release your athlete to the lessons of the game.

(3) Release your athlete to the coaching staff.

(4) Make sure there is only one instructional voice.

(5) There are five roles at any contest: (a) Coach; (b) Officiate; (c) Play; (d) Cheer and encourage; (e) Volunteer. Be the best at your role!

(6) After the game, don't rehash the game. Build their confidence - don't criticize their play. Be a relationship builder not a destroyer - don't tear down other players or coaches.

The soccer teams' theme this season is: From Luke 21:1 - This is the parable about the widow who "put in all she had!" What would happen in our family, school, church or soccer team or any team if we put in all we had for Christ?