Few have as much influence over a child's youth sports experience as a parent. The support and encouragement youth sports parents offer provides their children the enthusiasm to continue down the rewarding path of youth sports to learn both sport skills and life lessons on the field, court or rink.

However, their influence doesn't stop there. When a parent volunteers their time to help a youth sports league or team, they are impacting the lives of children throughout the community. From setting up team snacks to organizing a telephone tree or car pool, the actions of youth sports parents help to create positive memories for all children participating.

Do you know a great candidate for the Parents Association for Youth Sports (PAYS) 2013 Parent of the year?
Submit a nomination today!

The award winner and one guest will receive complimentary flight and accommodations to the Youth Sports Congress in San Diego, Calif. during Nov. 20-23, 2013 where the winner will be honored during the Awards Ceremony. Deadline: August 15, 2013.

• I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, and officials at every game, practice, or other youth sports event.
• I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my child ahead of a personal desire to win.
• I will insist that my child play in a safe and healthy environment.
• I will require that my child’s coach be trained in the responsibilities of being a youth sports coach and that the coach upholds the Coaches’ Code of Ethics.
• I will support coaches and officials working with my child, in order to encourage a positive and enjoyable experience for all.
• I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, and will refrain from their use at all youth sports events.
• I will remember that the game is for youth - not for adults.
• I will do my very best to make youth sports fun for my child.
• I will help my child enjoy the youth sports experience by doing whatever I can, such as being a respectful fan, assisting with coaching, or providing transportation.
• I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, fans, and officials with respect regardless of race, sex, creed, or ability.
• I will read the National Standards for Youth Sports and do what I can to help all youth sports organizations implement and enforce them.