This question often crosses my mind, but especially around this time of year when I am in full “football mom” mode. You see, I help in running the youth football program for the town I live in. Each year, I spend countless hours organizing, contacting, problem solving and dealing with 180 sets of parents. Daily and nightly. In person, via email and on the phone.

I am astounded  by the parents who use a sport as a means of babysitting. Their child clearly does not want to be playing football, yet each day they drop this child off, take off and return (late) to pick them up two and a half hours later.

I am astounded by the parents who never bother to attend a single, solitary game to support their child.

I am astounded by the parents who  neglect to give their child even a 6 ounce bottle of water in 88 degree heat on an astro turf field.

I am astounded by the parents who claim to never have received a single email or phone call that reminds them of games, practices and other important events…….even though I have proof that their email/phone call was indeed received.

I am astounded by the parents who have no consideration to inform the coaches when their child will not be able to play in a certain game. They just…don’t show up. How fair is this to the rest of the team? Each player has a certain position and is needed greatly.

But mostly, I am astounded that these are the very same parents who are the first to complain when their child doesn’t get enough playing time on the field, are the first to chime in on how things SHOULD be done yet NEVER, EVER step up when a request for help goes out.

I can tell you why the people who volunteer, volunteer. It’s to be there for our children. To help in giving them the best experience possible. To be a part of their child’s life.

So I ask myself…….why do “these” people bother having children when they are not really THERE for them?

Sorry, just had to bitch.

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