Should I allow my son to quit?

Question
I have a ten year old son that is playing contact football for the first time this year.  This is his first sport.  He has had three games and during each game he has pretended to have an injury along with many tears.  He finally told me he is terrified of not knowing the routes to the plays and does not want to get into trouble or have the kids yell at him.  Should I have him quit?  On one hand I don't want to give up, i think he should do his best and see it through.  The coach by the way has been great.  On the other hand I do not want him to be freaked out by playing sports.  He should be able to enjoy it.  Please advise me...I am willing to do anything to help. Thank you for your time.  
Elizabeth

Answer
Elizabeth
Sorry for the delay in my reply, I am an on field college football official and was traveling when you posted this question.

First - No do not let him quit. The best thing for him is to honor his commitment to the team, himself, the coach.  He need to finish the season and try his best. I realize he is only 10 years old but this is his first sport and if you allow him to quit you teach him it is alright to give up when things become unpleasant or difficult.

My heart goes out to him for being fearful of not knowing his routes or assignments. We have all faced similar fears but we have all conquered them.  That is what he will learn this season and it will instill confidence in him in the long run.  All he can do is his best!

My recommendation is to Have him tell you and have him try to teach you the plays or routes he is supposed to run.  Take about 5-10 minutes every night to do this.  Have him show you the play book and draw the plays and his routes on a blank piece of paper.  This will help him learn one play, one route at a time.  Plus it gives you some good quality time with your son.  Do this all season and you will be surprised at how fast he learns.

The fact that the coach has been great is a real plus!  Make sure your son sticks it out for the season they have only played 3 games and come Thanksgiving time he will be happy he played.

Reassure him he won't get in trouble for not knowing a play but that part of his commitment to the team is to know the plays the other part of his commitment is not to abandon the team.  He needs to learn to honor his commitment.

It is natural to be a bit fearful, but with confidence he will have less fear and more fun.  He will achieve this confidence by learning the plays and knowing his assignments [this is not rocket science he can learn he just needs some extra help].  

Please keep in touch and let me know how you and your son are doing leaning the plays together.  

Best of luck,
Vic Winnek
NCAA Football Official