This weekend is an opportunity to acknowledge the important role fathers play in not only the institution of the family but also in the institution of sport.
As important male role models, they can heavily influence the attitudes, values and behaviours of their children in and around sport.
We tend to consider the phenomenon of the ''soccer mom'' as a relatively new one (although mothers around the world have provided a taxi and cheerleading service free of charge to their children for years!), but the phenomenon of the ''fanatical father'', ''director dad''' and ''pushy patriarch'' is most obvious in the realm of sport.
How many times do we see the ''old man'' reliving his youth through and with his children in sport?
They are the ones directing play from the sidelines, joining the team huddle at halftime, straining their back muscles in a game of backyard cricket with the teenagers, or giving extra coaching advice and pep talks even if they're not wanted.
Of course, these are the extremes and many determined dads have seen their persistence come to fruition.
Just ask Tiger Woods and the Williams sisters what impact fathers had on their careers.
Whether we think this is cruelty or commitment is irrelevant.
If you asked my children what the best part of their day was, they usually refer to some action-packed, one-on-one time with Dad.
And both sons and daughters appreciate this demonstration of love and attention.
So, to all the sports-mad dads out there Happy Father's Day and celebrate it by enjoying the world of sport with your child prodigies this weekend.
