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Story by Belinda Wong

A Philadelphia father was charged with aggravated assault after pulling a gun on his son's football coach because he didn't think the boy was getting enough playing time.

Even though there were no injuries, the mere fact that parental behavior at
youth sporting events has become an issue is disturbing on its own. These kids were six and seven years old. That's some good example setting, dad. I'd love to get a glimpse into this household.

It's just sad. Parents must lead by example, but there is no hope for a promising future if proper guidance isn't implemented.

Organizations like the "Citizens Through Sports Alliance" and "The Center for Sports Parenting" promotes fair play in sports and reinforces the value of sport as a test of character. Since 1997, CTSA has been building a sports culture that encourages respect for self, respect for others, and respect for the game."

But unfortunately, parents acting, let's say - childish, is all too common.

According to shatteredpeace.com, a Pennsylvania parent body-slammed a high school referee after he ordered the man's wife out of the gym for allegedly yelling obscenities during a basketball game.

Also in Pennsylvania, a former police officer was convicted of soliciting assault for giving a 10-year-old Little League pitcher $2 to hit another youngster with a fastball.

And there's plenty more where that came from.

Regarding the increase of parental violence at youth sporting events, Fred Engh, of the National Alliance for Youth Sports, told the New York Times "It's not the kid at bat," he said, "It's the parent, who is living vicariously through his child.”

A second factor is greed, Engh said. "So many parents today are saying, 'My child is going to get some of that money, the millions of dollars in professional sports or a college scholarship."

Looks like it's the parents who need to grow up.