Who's Really in the Game: Me or My kid?
Featured Photo - Cameron Boozer
Parents, gather ‘round. Let’s have a little heart-to-heart, shall we? As you sit on the bleachers, gripping your coffee cup (or is it a stress ball?), there’s a question that’s more important than who’s winning or losing: Who cares more about this game—me or my kid?
I know, I know. We all want our kids to be the next LeBron James or Caitlin Clark. We dream of college scholarships, ESPN highlights, and maybe a little revenge against that high school gym teacher who said we’d never amount to much. But hold on. Let’s rewind and take a closer look at what’s happening out there on the field, court, or rink.
Picture this: your child is out there, giving it their all. Maybe they’re dribbling down the court, running the bases, or perfecting that dive. You’re on the sidelines, your heart pounding with every move they make. You’re shouting encouragement—okay, sometimes it’s more like a play-by-play commentary. But ask yourself: who’s more into this game, me or my kid?
Dino Cook here, and let me tell you a little secret. I’ve been there. My son was a good athlete. But the real magic happened when I stepped back and let him own the game. Sure, I was there for every cheer, every pep talk, every Band-Aid. But it was his game, not mine. And that made all the difference.
So, what’s the play? Here are a few tips from one parent to another:
Check Your Scoreboard: Are you more excited about the game than your kid? If you’re the one bouncing off the walls, it’s time to dial it down a notch. Let your child take the lead.
Listen Up: Talk to your child about their goals and feelings. Maybe they’re playing for fun, to be with friends, or to challenge themselves. Tune into their motivations, not just your own dreams for them.
Enjoy the Game: Remember when sports were just fun? It’s not about living vicariously through your child. It’s about watching them grow, learn, and have a blast. Relish those moments without the pressure.
Encourage, Don’t Overwhelm: Cheer them on, but don’t become the sideline coach barking orders. Your role is to support, not to strategize their every move.
Reflect: After the game, talk about what went well and what could improve, but keep it positive. Celebrate their efforts and growth, not just the scoreboard.
In the end, the most important question all youth sports parents need to ask themselves is, "Who cares more about this game? Me or my kid?" The answer should always lean towards your child. It’s their journey, their passion, and their game. You’re there to support, love, and cheer—sometimes loudly, sometimes quietly, but always with their best interests at heart.
So next time you’re at the game, take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy the show. Your child is the star, and you’re their biggest fan. And that, my friends, is the best role of all.
By embracing this mindset, we can ensure our kids not only play their best but also love every minute of it. And who knows? Maybe they’ll grow up to be the next big star—or just a happy, healthy adult who loves the game. Either way, we’ve done our job right.