Touchdown! What we learn from football and cheer...

Shiny uniforms for proud shiny monkeys

Our two tweens have been enjoying the jungles of our local Pop Warner football/cheer program for years now, and I'm always thinking as I learn new things about the program, "I wish someone wrote a book on how to be a football/cheer parent." Not an expose, sleazy tell-all, but an honest-to-goodness "girlfriend's guide" that parents could read before they decide to make the leap into a program like this.  So for my own peace of mind, here's a book outline for your comments:

SO YOU WANT TO BE A FOOTBALL/CHEER PARENT?

Confessions from a former team mom on what you REALLY need to know about getting your son or daughter involved in these sports.

I. The Kick off: Introduction

Here I would write concise, smart and funny stuff about the importance of learning teamwork, the program's physical and emotional development benefits, blah blah blah see website for details.

II. The Stadium and the Pyramid: Social Structure and Ecosystem

Learning the org chart of your football or cheer program will help you know who to compliment, and who to confide in. Learning the team parent, board members will help you decide whether you want to take a leadership role... and when.  From local team to national HQ, resources and support are there... you just have to know who they are and when to ask questions. 

And when to be quiet and hand in your candy bar money.

III. Coaches' Corner: Leadership is not optional

In this chapter we discuss how important it is for your team to have strong leadership, and your child to have a coach who is truly willing to be a role model for your child. If you can find out who the coaches are and more about them first-hand, you are the only qualified expert when it comes to determining if these adults are a good fit for your child... and vice versa.

IV. The Roster

Here I dish a bit (no names) about how the players interact on and off the field, and what to be aware of before you sign your child on... the pros, and the cons. I will also share "unexpected benefits" (cool factor: 10 when you get to wear your game day jersey to school, anti-bullying, brother/sisterhood).

V. Winning: overrated or understated?

After years in the program, we have learned that winning isn't everything, but it sure does help improve everyone's mood.  There's no "i" in team, but there is a "we" in "weekend"... losing a game can really obliterate the day.

VI. Overtime: 

Funny stories, thoughts and "girlfriend's guide" tips from one football mom to another.