Sadly, the pressure to succeed can be overwhelming for many young athletes during their basketball journey. They must navigate the demands of school, practice, and games while striving to stay mentally focused through adversity on and off the court. Often, this pressure creates the sense of playing two games: the one on the court and the one to meet their parents' expectations—an incredibly challenging and taxing experience.
For athletes dedicated to becoming their best selves as
players and individuals, juggling these conflicting pressures can lead to
frustration, anxiety, and even mental burnout. Athletes constantly trying to
please their parents may struggle to relax and truly enjoy the game. This
tension can heighten the likelihood of mistakes, amplifying their pressure and
anxiety during performance.
Parents play a pivotal role in shaping their child's
athletic experience. It is crucial to understand how their actions and words
affect their child's performance. Be an energy giver, not an energy
vampire—grant them the freedom to focus and compete. If the goal is your
child's success, let them play their game, trust the system they are in, and
follow the coach's direction. Avoid adding pressure; instead, celebrate their
growth, support their skill development, and enjoy the journey with them.
Remember, athletes are human beings experiencing a
whirlwind of emotions during games. Amid the chaos, they need to know that at
the very least, you are their advocate and a source of positivity, regardless
of the outcome or their performance. To help them reach their full potential,
create a supportive environment where they feel safe and do not have to play
two games.
Tips for Parents Supporting Young Athletes:
1.
Be supportive and encouraging: Let your child
know you believe in them and are their biggest cheerleader, on and off the
court.
2.
Focus on the process, not the outcome: Rewards
come after the work. Help your child cultivate a love for the game and a
passion for improvement—keys to growth.
3.
Avoid comparisons: Comparison is the thief of
joy. Never make your athlete feel inadequate in any way.
4.
Set realistic expectations: Encourage your child
to shine in their role, whatever it may be, contributing to the team's success.
5.
Be patient: Developing skills takes time. You
must not get discouraged—success requires perseverance.
