AFL reminds parents to put kids first

AFL junior leagues will take part in AFL Kids First round on 28 and 29 April to promote appropriate spectator behavior at junior football matches.

AFL Kids First aims to encourage parents to help create a positive environment for their children to participate in sporting activities.

The round of 28/29 April will include a number of league initiatives to guide parents so that both they and their children obtain the maximum benefit and enjoyment from their participation.

Former Sydney Swans captain Brett Kirk says junior football creates a sense of community and should be enjoyed by everyone involved.

“Footy brings people together! It is for everyone and it creates communities from the grassroots level up,” he said.

“My son Indhi plays Auskick for the Maroubra Saints and

“I am proud to be involved in a sport that brings people together like AFL, but parents should always remember that kids are out there to have fun, so we need to support and encourage them in positive ways on match day.

there’s nothing better than watching him have fun　with his friends on the weekend.

New GWS GIANTS recruit Dom Tyson remembers how much fun he had playing Auskick and thanked his parents for their support.

“Growing up playing sport with your friend at your local club can be such a special time for every kid.

“My parents were a great support for me when I was playing Auskick. They were always encouraging me to have fun. It creates such a great foundation.

“It’s important that everyone remembers what a positive environment sport needs to be for kids.”

Parents play an important role in the delivery and support of sporting activities for their own and other children. With it comes a clear responsibility to act in a constructive and encouraging manner at all times.

Enthusiastic cheering and wanting children to perform well is understandable, but it is critical that parents do this in an acceptable manner to avoid the “ugly parent syndrome” at all times.

The basic principles of Kids First are to remind parents that:

• Sport for children is a vital part of their development growing up.
• Children like to win, but more importantly, they want to have fun.
• Parents need to set the right example at the sports ground, not just at home.
• Parents should be proud of their child’s efforts irrespective of the result.
• Sport is important to children’s self esteem.