Have you ever witnessed a youth hockey game where the parents seemed more intense than the players?

This episode of Our Kids Play Hockey tackles the pressing issue of inappropriate parent behavior at games, where cursing at referees and yelling at children can become all too common.

This episode explores the ripple effects of such negativity, from driving referees away and causing shortages to impacting the overall experience for young players. The hosts highlight the crucial role of organizational culture in setting the tone for positive behavior, emphasizing the need for education and clear communication among coaches, parents, and players. They also remind listeners of practical strategies, like the "24-hour rule" for parent-coach interactions, to curb problematic conduct.

By focusing on positive reinforcement and respect, the discussion aims to shift the narrative towards celebrating the majority of uplifting experiences in youth hockey.

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00:00:08: Introduction

00:01:18: Lee's Story: Inappropriate Parent Behavior at Youth Hockey

00:03:35: Discussion on Parental Behavior and Challenges

00:05:07: Education and Culture in Youth Sports

00:08:20: Importance of Culture and Education in Teams

00:11:56: Addressing Inappropriate Behavior and Teaching Moments

00:14:58: Impact of Parental Behavior on Kids

00:20:20: Referee Shortage and Parental Impact

00:24:36: Role of Coaches and Referees in Youth Hockey

00:28:44: Addressing Parental Behavior and Culture

00:32:32: Establishing Team Culture and Rules

00:37:17: Personal Responsibility and Addressing Inappropriate Behavior

00:44:42: Challenges in Addressing Inappropriate Behavior

00:49:55: Positive Influence and Culture in Youth Hockey

00:54:31: Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks