What a Sideline Cheer Should Sound Like

It’s Saturday morning. The whistle blows. You’re on the sideline.

Your child has the ball. Your heart’s racing. You want to help. You want to cheer.

But what should you say?

- It’s easy to shout something that feels helpful — but might not be.

- And in junior soccer, what we say (or don’t say) can have a bigger impact than we realise.

Words That Build Confidence

The best sideline support is simple, calm, and encouraging.

Try phrases like:

- “Great effort!”

- “Well done for trying!”

- “Keep going!”

- “Nice idea!”

- “I love watching you play.”

These words:

✅ Celebrate effort

✅ Don’t over-coach

✅ Keep kids focused on learning, not pleasing

They also create emotional safety — letting your child know they’re supported no matter the outcome.

What to Avoid

Sometimes we say things out of excitement, nerves, or habit — but they can do more harm than good.

Common phrases to rethink:

- “Kick it!” or “Shoot!” – It adds pressure and can override the player’s decision-making.

- “Wake up!” – Frustration disguised as feedback.

- “Pass it!” – The player may already be trying — or may have a better view of the situation.

If multiple adults are shouting instructions from different angles, it can feel overwhelming — like trying to play while being coached by four people at once.

Let the Coaches Coach

Your job isn’t to instruct — it’s to support.

Leave the technical advice to the coach.

You get to be the voice of encouragement, not correction.

Even if you know the game — even if you used to play — the sideline isn’t the place to coach.

Your calm presence helps your child stay focused, confident, and connected to the team.

Silence Can Be Powerful

Sometimes the best cheer is no cheer at all.

Let the game breathe. Let your child think. Let the moment play out.

If you’re unsure what to say… just smile. Clap. Show up.

- They’ll feel it — and they’ll remember.

Final Thought?

Your voice matters. A lot.

So make sure it lifts your child up, not weighs them down.

When in doubt, keep it simple. Keep it kind.

And remember:

- If your cheer sounds like coaching, it’s probably not cheering like a parent.

- If it sounds like love, you’re on the right track.