#6 Bad Game Protocol:
Create space between a bad performance and any post-game life lesson. Let the sting wear off before offering up constructive ideas for the next game. Too many times I see parents replaying their son’s mistakes after a game before they even get to the car. Wait a day or two before having that conversation – the player will be less defensive and more receptive. Ask open-ended questions in areas the player has control over and can improve upon like effort, attitude, intensity, concentration, and being a good teammate. Even elite athletes are “off” their game some days and must rely on effort and grit until they get back on track.
There are also two pre-game conversations on this point that sports parents should routinely have with their student athlete: (1) players must rely on effort and attitude when they are off their game. Knowing this ahead of time allows players to relax and transition into effort mode without crumbling during the game when things go wrong (and stuff will go wrong, guaranteed); and (2) discuss specific possible “worst case scenarios” with your student-athlete and how they will respond. Working thru worst case scenarios before hand and understanding it won’t be the end of the world can reduce game-day anxiety.
Having these pre-game and post-game routines is an effective way for sports parents to support their student-athletes.
