As a concerned parent in Lindenhurst, NY, I have seen firsthand the impact of subpar coaching on our girl’s flag football team. My daughter returns home from games and practices feeling disheartened and blaming herself for losses that are largely due to inadequate coaching. The way coaches communicate with these young athletes is not only detrimental to their self-esteem but also hinders their progress in the sport.  The coaches frequently name call and target individuals who have made mistakes.  The girls are encouraged to play through injuries, and are frequently requested to return to play prior to medical clearance.  Prioritizing their health leads them to be labeled as “dramatic”. 

Flag football is a game that requires strategic thinking, teamwork, and skill development. However, without proper guidance and positive reinforcement from coaches, our girls are missing out on these valuable lessons. According to the Women's Sports Foundation, positive coaching can significantly enhance a girl's self-esteem and overall sports experience (Women's Sports Foundation).

Our community deserves better for our daughters. We need qualified coaches who will foster an encouraging environment where each player feels valued and confident in her abilities.  Preparation for training is disappointing, and in some cases, the girls are being asked to view YouTube videos on the sideline and execute on the next play.  When the coaches call out to “run the same play”, alerting the defense, the girls are blamed for not performing better.  The coaches do not seem to be familiar enough with the rules of the game to challenge a bad call, and as the girls advocate for themselves, they are silenced. 

We call upon the local school district and sports associations of Lindenhurst to review their current coaching standards for girls' flag football teams. In an effort to be competitive, we must have coaches who understand the fundamentals of the game and can impart them to the team in an organized and constructive way.  We urge them to implement comprehensive training programs that emphasize positivity, respectfulness, skill development as well as mental health awareness.

Please sign this petition if you believe in creating a better sporting environment for our daughters - one where they can grow both as players and individuals without fear or unnecessary pressure.