Sports, in general, are highly competitive environments. Athletes, by nature of the competition, will put "pressure" on themselves naturally. They want to succeed, like any normal, breathing human.

The stress and pressure that athletes feel is normal. Anyone that tells you it isn't probably hasn't played at an elite level. With that being said, adding to the pressure can mentally fatigue a kid who should be PLAYING.

This, in my opinion, is why we have such a high rate of burnout nowadays. Parents are more worried about college than whether or not their kids are having fun. Kids are hating their sport because they keep competing for a spot younger and younger.

It becomes part of how they view themselves. Good game, I am awesome. Bad Game, I am terrible. This isn't what kids deserve.

I was blessed growing up. My parents had one challenge for me. The question I was asked every game was "did you have fun today?" If the answer was no, then I was asked why. If we lost and I was down that was okay, but if it wasn't okay if I didn't enjoy playing.

I was allowed to compete without having to please my parents based on performance.

I challenge you to do the same.

I challenge you to free your kid from having to perform for you.

I was allowed to play to win.

When it becomes more than natural competition, it is out of hand. I will let you in on a secret, if your kid is competing for you, they don't love the sport. They love you. Don't abuse that.

"Well Victoria, I think you are talking to me. How do I change it?"

You change it by speaking powerful statements over them.

"I loved watching you play today"

"You worked hard today."

Evaluate the Process. They will love the game. They will love to compete and win, IN FRONT OF YOU! I was blessed with awesome parents who let me do that. I am forever thankful for the miles my parent put on the Ford Cadillac to come to watch me play.

BE SALT

BE LIGHT

STAY GROOVY

VIC