To all the sports parents out there:
Hello! I’m in the same boat as you. We’ve enjoyed countless moments together at games, meets, and ceremonies, sharing high-fives and cheering for our kids. There’s nothing quite like the thrill of witnessing your child score a winning goal or hit a home run. I’ve perfected the proud parent smile and gracefully accepted compliments about my young athlete. As I sit in the stands, I often envision future high school games, where our kids will shine on larger fields, attracting scouts and opportunities.
But then reality strikes. I overhear a parent grumbling about a less coordinated teammate being substituted into the game. “Great! We’re going to lose now,” he mutters. My heart sinks as I glance around, praying that the child’s parents aren’t within earshot. They are, and I see the familiar look of concern on their faces. I can relate; I too am the parent of a child who struggles with athleticism.
It’s crucial to remember that children develop at different rates, and my older son is still finding his footing compared to his younger brother, who has excelled earlier. This developmental gap can lead to frustration—both for him and the adults around him. There’s a risk that he might abandon sports altogether out of discouragement from feeling inadequate, especially if others deem him a liability to the team.
Watching his games is a rollercoaster of emotions. Often, he spends more time on the bench than on the field. When he finally gets a chance to play, I find myself holding my breath, hoping for a smooth experience. The other day at soccer, he had an incredible opportunity to score, dribbling the ball down the field with determination. But in an unfortunate twist, he missed the ball entirely and fell flat on his back as the game continued without him.
The reactions from the sidelines stung. “Oh, come on!” a mother yelled, while another dad threw his hands up in disbelief. My heart ached for my son, who stood up, laughed off the mishap, and rejoined the game. That moment of bravery and resilience surpassed any athletic achievement his brother might earn.
This was a game—a chance for kids to cultivate confidence, sportsmanship, and teamwork. I refuse to let my son miss out on these essential lessons simply because he’s not as skilled. While some may argue it’s not their responsibility to boost his self-esteem, it’s equally unacceptable to undermine it.
The narrative that we’ve fostered a generation of entitled children who expect rewards for minimal effort misses the mark. Yes, we’ve seen an increase in entitlement, but it’s not about providing opportunities for growth; it’s about parents who micromanage, create barriers, and insist their children deserve the best without putting in the work. This behavior teaches kids that they deserve special treatment rather than fostering respect and teamwork.
So, fellow sports parents, let’s make a pact. Let’s allow coaches and referees to fulfill their roles, support not just our children but their teammates too, regardless of performance. Let’s teach our kids to rise after a fall, and to reach out and help others who stumble.
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In summary, let’s embrace the journey together, ensuring our kids not only enjoy sports but also learn the invaluable lessons that come with them.