UOW Rugby Union Juniors 7's, 8's & 9's

that both parents and kids have to give things a chance as none of us will know until such time that the kid actually tries it first. We need keep a close eye on them and ask them questions like “how did you go?” “Are you enjoying it?” find out what they like best about the sport and what they dislike most about it. We also have to be prepared to make a change if for whatever reason your child does not like or enjoy it as much as you would like them too then find out what they would prefer. There is nothing to be gained by making the kid go to training if they actually are getting nothing out of it but are doing it to keep mum and dad happy. Too often do I see kids playing a sport because it’s what mum and dad want and it is sometimes blatantly obvious because they just don’t give 100%. Chances are when they are older and can make their own decisions they will more than likely quit on sport totally because we have forced them to or told them how much they are enjoying when in fact they are not. So we have to be prepared to listen to them a little and always check by asking if they are still enjoying it. Don’t assume anything let alone set your kids up for failure and you for disappointment because their hearts are just not into it. Yes I know taking the kids to training, game days, tournaments whatever the case maybe it’s always inconvenient but, life is built on inconvenience so we have to do whatever it takes. As a parent myself and a coach the sacrifices we make now pay off when our children become young adults and enter those difficult years between 13 and 20 when they struggle to gain independence and find their way in life. All we can do is create the opportunities and give them a chance. Our children depend on our guidance and sport is our first real partnership we have with them and we must enjoy it together.