Circles of Criticism and Affirmation

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Because children place such an emphasis on having fun and learning the fundamentals of their sport over winning, Upward created the Circle of Criticism and Circle of Affirmation. This model helps both the parent and the coach in keeping a balanced perspective on what's happening on the court or field, while setting a great example for the children closely watching. Use the Circle of Affirmation in your home and enjoy the favorable results.

Actions and reactions on the court will have a lasting effect that either opens or closes the door to ministry. The circle of criticism and the circle of affirmation are simple concepts created to illustrate the results associated with negative and positive feedback given to the referee.

The circle of criticism begins when the coach gives a negative response to a right or wrong call made by the referee.

• The coach's example gives the parent the implied permission to react negatively towards the referee.
• The parent's example causes the child to assume that it is acceptable to react in the same way. The result can be a negative attitude towards authority.
• Actions and reactions on the court will have a lasting effect that either opens or closes the door to ministry.

In Upward, coaches and referees work together as a unified team. Coaches have the opportunity to stop the circle of criticism by implementing the circle of affirmation instead.

• The circle of affirmation begins when the coach gives a positive response to a right or wrong call made by the referee.
• The coach's example influences the parent to react positively towards the referee.
• The parent's example encourages the child to give a positive response. The result is a positive attitude towards authority.

Practicing the circle of affirmation makes the game a better experience for everyone involved. A referee who is encouraged through the circle of affirmation will be more confident in making the call. In order for coaches to experience this concept, league commissioners and directors may want to consider requiring coaches to also serve as referees.

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