Kloof High School gives important sports reminder
Well done to Kloof High School for reminding everyone of the
true magic of sports games. We hope many other schools and parents follow suit.
As a sports coach, I visit a number of schools around the country every weekend.
The other day I had a short drive down the road to Kloof High School, and as I was walking with my team to the field where we were meant to be playing on, I passed this sign...
"These are kids.
This is a game.
The referees are human.
This is not the World Cup.
Relax and enjoy!"
I cannot tell you how it brought a smile to my face. My poor kids face all kinds of abuses from their parents and family. Ok, sure, I coach first team rugby, but have you ever noticed how many first team players actually continue playing rugby after high school?
It's usually only the ones who cut it at Provincial level. Have you ever wondered why? Why so few continue playing for a local club or something?
I think the way some of their parents treat their games and competition kills the passion for the game in them. And that is so sad.
Sport is about fun. It's about camaraderie. It's about teamwork. Which is why I love this sign at Kloof High School.
I hope parents take note. Especially the short-tempered, competitive ones.
These are kids. Let them play for the sake of playing.
Everyone makes mistakes. Referees. Kids. Coaches. Deal with it. And enjoy it!