"Entitled Parents" And How To Deal With Them

Now that we have pointed out the existence of "entitled officials", let's move on to discuss "entitled parents".  Seems that they are appearing more and more frequently in the tennis world and its imperative that we as officials learn to deal with them for our own safety and the integrity of the game.

Here are some of the characteristics of an "entitled parent":

*  Usually  highly opinionated and agressive.
*  Has very few friends in the tennis world--or in the universe.
*  Normally is projecting what they wanted as a child on their own child.
*  Has a child that never cheats or does anything wrong.
*  Very seldom sits with their mate if the mate will even accompany them to a match.
*  Their normal speaking voice is loud but their screaming voice is even louder.
*  Convinced that they know more than any official or parent.
*  Very quick to confront an official.
*  If a female, probably looks much like the woman in the picture above.
*  Loves to coach their child even though its against the rules.
*  Tries to sneak around when disobeying the rules so no official will see them.
*  Usually berates their child after a match.  Frequently does this in front of everyone.
*  More than willing to confront other parents or opponents of their child.
*  If a male, usually quick to point out what a great athlete he was in high school and college.
*  If a male, loves to name names of famous people he knows.
*  Usually paces around the stands and fence when their child is playing.
*  Sweats profusely and swears even more profusely.
*  Probably a Democrat or a rich Republican.

How to deal with an "entitled parent":

*  Watch them carefully.  You will probably be able to hear them before you see them.
*  Approach carefully because they respond aggressively to anyone questioning them.
*  Be firm and speak in a normal voice.
*  Do not get into a yelling match with them.
*  Do not let them bully you.  That's usually how they win arguments and get their way.
*  Remind them that you are giving them a warning and the next violation will result in a point penalty for their child and their removal from the tennis center.
*  Do not stand around and argue with them.
*  If they violate the rules again, do what you told them you would do.  Giving continuous warnings only enables their bad behavior.
*  Remember that you can call the local police if the situation escalates.
*  Always write them up if there is a confrontation.
*  Ask them if they would like to pray together and sing a hymn together after a confrontation.  This will either endear them to you or get you run over by a truck.
*  Always proceed carefully and wisely with an entitled parent as they can respond very negatively and very quickly when confronted.
*  If you are a male official, wear a cup to work and be glad you have it.

Good luck as you work in our wonderful world of officiating!