Local Youth Representative Dinner
April 10, 2006

As part of the first working session on Youth Sport, LVCOSE hosted a dinner for local youth sports representatives.  We had two main goals in hosting this event...

• We wanted to create connections among sport organizations in the Lehigh Valley.  By accomplishing this, it will help in fostering an excellent competition and growth experience for the young athletes whom we serve.
   
• Our second goal was to identify concerns in Lehigh Valley youth sports.  We hope to work together with youth organizations to help provide the best opportunity we can for our children.  We wish to help them live up to their fullest potential as athletes and as young women and men.

Notes from the Dinner

Each table of representatives was asked to brainstorm ideas in which positive sportsmanship is fostered and encouraged among athletes, parents, coaches, and spectators during practices and competitions.  Each table was asked to present one to two ways that everyone could agree on.  These are some of the ideas that were presented...

• Coaches need to be proactive
• A standard code of conduct needs to be developed for athletes, parents, and spectators
• Coaches can meet with parents to discuss philosophy and set rules
• Coaches should have certification
• Coaches and parents should go through an informational program such as formal training
• Kids should be allowed to play all the positions on the field or court
• Coaches can ask players what positions they would like to play, allow flexibilty
• Coaches can keep all the games close by substituting and making sure all players do play

We also asked each representative to rank the following areas of concern relative to how appropriately the Lehigh Valley Coalition on Sport Ethics might productively address those concerns by becoming involved in teaching, encouraging, and fostering positive behaviors.  We then asked that each table come to a consensus on their top three choices.  After the votes were tallied, the top three concerns were revealed.

#1 - Teaching/modeling good communication skills among coaches, athletes, parents, and program administrators

#2 - Fostering appropriate behavior among parents of youth involved in athletics

#3(tie) - Encouraging sportsmanship and dedication among athletes involved in youth athletics

         - Fostering appropriate behavior among spectators at youth sporting events

 

Below are some photographs from the day of the event...