How to Help Your Child's Sports Team Without Coaching

Let's face it, we're just not all cut out to be coaches. It's probably safe to say that some of the folks currently coaching youth sports aren't cut out to be coaches. But, just because you have the self-awareness to know that you are not the best choice for coaching that little group of soccer or basketball players, doesn't mean you aren't willing to help out in some way, right? But, how? How can the concerned parent be part of the "team" without having to take charge of the team?

There are plenty of things you can do that don't involve game strategy and filling out rosters. Some parents can help out as assistant coaches until they learn the ropes to take on a team, or they may be perfectly happy to "assist" and provide an extra adult body at practices and games.

You may also be able to take on the care and maintenance of the equipment. Although this harkens back to the dreaded "equipment manager" job in high school, the coach may need someone who can pick up and transport equipment, repair things, make sure the balls are full of air, etc. If this is something you'd be happy doing and there is a need, by all means, step into fill it.

If you are good at organizing, just about every team can use a "team parent" to coordinate snacks, rides, organize the end of season party, order trophies, purchase a coach's gift, etc. This is an incredibly valuable role and a great way to contribute on a substantial level if you've got the inclination. But, make sure you are organized and dedicated. This isn't a job for someone who may not have the time or the skills. This is also a good job to be shared by two like-minded individuals so maybe two parents could team up to tackle all these details.

Basketball, baseball and other sports need a scorekeeper for each team. If you can commit to being at all the games and know a little bit about keeping score, perhaps keeping the "team book" could be your contribution. Most teams like to get one or two people who can consistently take care of this so that there is no confusion about how marks are kept. This is a great way to get to know the players and play a special role, even if you can't be at all the practices.

Finally, helping referee is another way to contribute without coaching. Often, for extremely young kids, parents take on the role of helping to ref, watching the sidelines or filling in if a referee doesn't show up for a game. If you have some talent or inclination toward helping keep things legal, then stepping in as a referee may be just the thing.

As you can see, there are several things parents can do to model teamwork and participation for their child, while not having to step into the coach's shoes on the youth sports team. For most teams, there is a real void of volunteers and the coach is likely to be very happy you've stepped in to help.