Pre and Post Game Routines
Pre-Game
Preparation: This
one is counter-intuitive. But parents
should discuss the bad things that can
happen regardless of effort. Help the athlete develop coping skills and reduce
game day pressure by explaining that mistakes can happen, will happen, but
mistakes are just part the process and are not the end of the world.
Post-Game
Review: Remind parents to leave some breathing room before
offering up ideas for improvement to the youth athlete. As coaches we’ve all seen the parent barking
at their kid after the game before they even reach the car! Parents should ask questions about improving
areas the athlete can control – effort, focus, teamwork, etc. Asking anyone to improve in areas they cannot
control just leaves them frustrated and demoralized.
Parents’
Support: The best pre
and post-game role for sports parents is to provide support to the
athlete. Be the safe haven for the youth
athlete away from the field. Let the
coach do the coaching while parents keep the athlete motivated to stick with it
and improve on last game’s performance.
