Joanna Fortune: My son is being left on the bench during matches

You could talk to the coach about your concerns in a calm way, without venting. The coach could clarify the club’s structure, focus, and goals for the team, enabling you to make an informed decision about whether your son should stay.

I understand coaches want their team or club to do well in championships, but, as you say, giving other children a game when it is a friendly would be a more inclusive approach.

My 12-year-old son is sports mad and plays with the local soccer team. He is not the strongest player and is often left on the bench during matches, even when they are friendly ones. The lack of match play is beginning to affect his confidence and interest in the game. I don’t want to be that parent who complains to the coach, but I’m not sure what else I can do.

Children’s sports are often very competitive from a very young age, and the focus on fielding the best players can cause children to leave a sport they enjoy, which is such a shame. I understand coaches want their team or club to do well in championships, but, as you say, giving other children a game when it is a friendly would be a more inclusive approach.