The pay to play model

[Soccer-dad-NV]

I wouldnt say it if I wasnt completely sure about it. Thanks.

In your case certainly you or your child would say thank you. And you would make sure to ask for the rides or notify if you couldnt make a practice?

I covered the registration of a player for 2 years. He was new from Ghana. Poor family. I gave him rides or had another parent help for that whole time.

Not a single thanks in that time. Would never call or ask for a ride just expected it.

Yes. He was a great player. But at some point you have to assess and realize no one is above the team.

He just stopped showing up one day. Decided to play football instead. 2 months later begged to come back. My team was full and I realized how much free time I had now that I wasnt supportin him.

And they purchased a large house and are better off than I am now.

So like I said help those who are willing to help themselves and also who are respectful and appreciative of the help.

I would also add that I have seen many players in Newton comped and given free rides because they are great players and this is not because of money but coaches enticing players over to their team.

I hear what your saying. I've also helped with rides, hahded down soccer cleats etc. It's unfortunate you weren't shown appreciation from the family/player. It's a much easier pill to swallow when your are least given a 'thank you'. Every situation is unique. It's just easy to generalize on a few experiences.

I'm not coaching this year and have noticed lots of time on my hands. I think I'll make more money working this year but it was also a labour of love.

 

[easoccer]

I hear what your saying. I've also helped with rides, hahded down soccer cleats etc. It's unfortunate you weren't shown appreciation from the family/player. It's a much easier pill to swallow when your are least given a 'thank you'. Every situation is unique. It's just easy to generalize on a few experiences.

I'm not coaching this year and have noticed lots of time on my hands. I think I'll make more money working this year but it was also a labour of love.

I think every coach at some point has tried to help. Made sacrifices. Took bad shifts or even missed opportunities at work to be on the field. Spent hours giving other people rides.

Honestly I love volunteering as a coach, interacting with the kids, even mentoring if you will.

I never had so many friends and aquaintences as an adult since I started 6 years ago.

You will miss it.

At the same time I love watching my other kids play (who Im not coaching) and being able to focus on them a lot more.

 

[TKBC]

I've been in situations where good players didn't even tryout for "reprerational" teams due to the cost of extra kit. Youth sports are too exclusionary at too young an age. Kids should be able to play at a competitive level that suits their skills and aptitude without having to consider cost.

Ideally, yes.

 

[TKBC]

If they cant afford to pay the family should be required to volunteer in some way.

Good idea!

 

[TKBC]

I respect what you are saying. I just think as a community we need to be more mindful of the unnecessary financial barriers we are putting on our players and their families. Many of the best players in the world got to where they are without flashy kits.

yup