Click here to subscribe today or Login.
First Posted: 6/20/2013
(AP) The new signs at youth baseball fields in this Chicago suburb are small, not much more than gentle reminders for parents, coaches and other adults in the stands. Still, the message is clear: Behave.
They begin: “This is a game being played by children. If they win or lose every game of the season, it will not impact what college they attend or their future potential income..”
The campaign is part of a growing movement in youth sports aimed at reining in parents who, many say, are too involved, too competitive and in need of a little perspective.
Elsewhere, some youth sports leagues are requiring parents to sign codes of conduct or recite pledges before games. Other leagues occasionally have “silent” games to limit parent interference.
Associated Press