Junior racquetball tournament play can be a mine field for parents to walk through! Here are some tips to help you navigate:
1. Not all Parents are “nice” during their child’s competition but that does not mean you can’t be!
2. Not all opposing coaches are “nice” either but see rule 1.
3. Keep priorities in mind-#1-Spiritual and family development, #2-Scholastic obligations and grades, and #3-doing cool “kid things”. #4 is racquetball!!
4. Seeding-is supposed to be fair-it might not be, but I wouldn’t let it ruin my day. As an fyi, I coach several of the best players on the planet, and their seeds don’t always look good either; but it is based on numbers and in junior racquetball, maybe a committee-admittedly sometimes a committee with an agenda. But whether you meet them in the finals or first round, junior or missy will have to beat them to win the tournament.
5. Make sure the kids get sleep. Sleep is not always easy for kids, especially at big tournaments.
6. Enforce rules, such as on court behavior, and decorum. Tough love for little racquetball players!
Many of you veteran junior coaches and parents are to be commended! Feel free to share more advice! Onward and upward