Everest Strong Coaching podcast hosted Prim Siripipat, ESPN anchor and former elite amateur tennis player to discuss the realities of being a competitive youth athlete. We cover a variety of topics that affect an athlete’s mental health (& mental game) ranging from perceived pressure to life after sport.
Prim and I discuss the hyper focus required to be an elite athlete. For your child to be competitive, they must be in the driver’s seat calling the shots. Highly motivated children tend to be driven by success in the form of accolades, piling more pressure on themselves than their parents and loved ones realize. Because of this, parents need to learn when to take a step back and allow their child the freedom to explore what they would like to become. Frequently parents make the mistake of hyper-focusing on nutrition, dedication, and pressure to practice which usually ends in kids losing their love for the sport. Reflect on boundaries and your role as a parent to love and support your child. Remember, athletes have coaches for a reason!
If your child does decide that they want to seriously pursue competitive athletics, ensure that you prepare them for life after their sport. Many young athletes confuse their success in performance with their sense of purpose. All athletes should have a backup plan and must understand that winning isn’t everything. If you do not instill this belief in your child they may find themselves lost if they’re forced into early ‘retirement’. Remind your child that they are a sum of many parts, all worthy of love and respect.
Above all else, sports should be fun! Regardless of the level of play, sports should be played for enjoyment and fulfillment. Once the fun ends, so should the activity. Listen here for more information on how to support your child’s dreams in a way that promotes positive mental health.