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How parents should behave during the game

How parents should behave at the game: “Support Code” (DINA)

During a match, a child learns not only football, but also confidence, discipline, and how to handle mistakes and stress. Parental support can become a superpower — or a source of pressure.

Support
Respect
Simple rules

1) The main DINA principle

We support effort — we don’t judge the result.
Kids improve faster when they:
  • are not afraid to make mistakes
  • feel safe
  • know they are loved and supported regardless of the score

2) What we welcome in the stands

  • Applause and positive support
  • Support the team: “Go, DINA!”
  • Support behavior: “Well done for fighting!”
  • Respect opponents and referees
  • Stay calm, even when the game is tense
Golden rule: 1 supportive phrase is better than 10 instructions.

3) What to avoid (and why)

Coaching from the stands: “Shoot!”, “Pass!”, “Where are you going?”—
The child gets confused: the coach says one thing, the parent says another. The child stops thinking independently, becomes afraid of making mistakes, and starts playing for “approval.” On the field, the child must make decisions — that’s how development happens.
Public criticism: “You played badly!”+
This hurts confidence. The child starts playing not bravely, but “so I don’t make a mistake.”
Arguing with referees or opponents+
Even if it feels “unfair,” the child sees the parent’s emotions and may become angry, nervous, and lose focus. We set an example of respect.

4) The best parent = a “quiet leader”

  • you are present
  • you stay calm
  • you support
  • you don’t interfere
Your child should feel: “Mom/Dad believes in me, and everything will be okay.”

5) What to say BEFORE the match

  • “Play bravely and enjoy it.”
  • “Mistakes are part of the game.”
  • “Listen to the coach and do your best.”
Don’t say: “You must win!”, “Just don’t make mistakes!”, “You have to score today!”

6) What to say AFTER the match (most important)

After the game, children feel tired and emotional. The best thing is not judgment — but conversation and support.
3 questions that always work:
  • “What did you like about the game?”
  • “What went best today?”
  • “What do you want to improve in training?”
3 supportive phrases:
  • “I’m proud of your effort.”
  • “Well done for not giving up.”
  • “We’re together — the score is not the main thing.”
If your child is upset — emotions first, analysis later. Sometimes a hug is the best support.

7) If your child made a mistake or the team lost

Mistakes are normal. A mistake is material for growth.
  • calm them down
  • don’t look for someone to blame
  • give time
Good phrase: “Everyone makes mistakes. You’re learning. I’m here.”

8) Relationship with the coach

During the match, the coach is responsible for decisions. If you have questions — let’s discuss them after, calmly and privately.
Best format: “Could you clarify how I can best help my child at home / mentally?”

9) Short “DINA Support Code” (printable)

DINA Support Code

I support the team and the effort
I do not coach from the stands
I respect referees, opponents, and coaches
I do not criticize my child publicly
After the game, I talk about progress, not the score
I remember: football is about development and joy
Your child becomes stronger not from “Shoot!”, but from the feeling: “I’m supported. I can make mistakes. I’m growing.”
Thank you for being with DINA.
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