The only players that should get moved up should be exceptional. They should be classified as a potential starter. Why would you move kids up if they were not going to play? They would be better off playing on JV or 8th grade rather than sitting on the bench.
Some parents who "want" their kids moved up handle it in a real bad way. These are the helicopter parents hovering over everything their kids do. They think they are doing their kids a favor by pushing so hard, but in the end they may end up hurting their kids both physically and mentally. An 8th grader who is not the same size as his teammates is at a disadvantage. He risks physical injury from not only his opponents but also from his teammates.
As a college recruiter, I can also tell you that the lacrosse world is a small world. Coaches all speak and. When they ask the question - what are the parents like? We must be honest with them. College coaches have zero interest in dealing with overbearing parents.
Be careful what you wish for.
Seriously, awesome post. Makes this board worth coming to. Thank you.
Hey helicopter parents (never heard that term before but its awesome) - you listening and taking notes? Better be, for the good of your kids.
Its not healthy parenting and its not the stuff of healthy adult relationships either. Unless both parents are like that, I bet a study would reveal more unhappy marriages when one parent is so obsessed with youth sports and the other is not nearly as intense. Clearly, the overwhelming obsession with youth lacrosse (sports) by an adult is a symptom that their marriage and/or other aspects of their lives are a lot less interesting and they've found a great hobby/diversion. Question - what happens to your marriage when the kids move on? Trouble...
Several things-
1- I believe (look back and confirm) that the discussion began about moving 8th graders up to JV or varsity, not just varsity. I believe most are considering JV which would seem appropriate for an above average player if that is the philosophy of that program. Too much focus on varsity has taken place without cause.
2- Parents love their kids, some can't help it and I agree, too much is a bad thing. However, what about all these club coaches and directors that themselves are coaching or have coached their own children, is that helicopter parenting as well? I would argue at times yes. In some cases these coaches are more than qualified to teach/coach their own (and my son), at other times they are there to give "Johnny" more opportunities. All parents need to assess what is really best for their kid.
3- Lastly, symptom?? overwhelming obsession?? Diversion?? Certainly you are entitled to your opinion, but Doc do we on BOTC owe you a copay?
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