I am writing this letter in protest to what happened at my daughter’s soccer game on September 22.
The parents of both teams were standing on the sidelines of Fred Milne Park. The referee blew his whistle, and told only the Sooke parents to move to the other side of the field, or the game would be cancelled.
He said we were distracting the players with comments like: ‘Good throw in,’ ‘Get open,’ ‘Man on,’ etc.
According to the official, those types of comments are considered coaching. Yes, this actually happened, and I strongly disagree with his opinion.
First and foremost, we, as parents, were not told prior to the start of the game where we were allowed to stand and cheer our kids on.
Secondly, apparently, there were boxes to be outlined in chalk, as to where the team is to stand, they weren’t there.
Then, to top it all off, I have a referee telling me that the park is private property.
He is sadly mistaken, that park is Sooke Community Association’s land.
I played and coached baseball and hockey, as well as assistant coached soccer in 2012.
The rules in which the Sooke Soccer Association adopted two years ago are conflicting and confusing to say the least.
I was told the reason for them are that the kids playing are becoming “confused” when their parents cheer them on, and not listening to the coach.
That statement is absolutely ridiculous, and falls on the coaches’ shoulders if his or her team is not listening to coaching directions.
There is a huge grey area here people. Let us become clear, as adults here, to exactly what the “rules” are prior to game time.
There is a solution to this, maybe have a limit of approach in a designated area of the field for spectators, much like a turf field. What happened should have never taken place.
By moving us to the opposite side of the field doesn’t solve anything. When the play is over near me, I will be saying the same things as on the previous side. The game was cancelled.
The only thing accomplished today was to show the girls how bad sportsmanship works.
I will continue to give my daughter encouragement on her play, on the field.
If anyone has questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to call me, my number is in the phone book.
Billy Moore
Sooke