How One Athlete’s Confidence Thrived–With A Little Help

Jane’s 10-year-old son was a talented golfer who fell apart during competitions. Like many perfectionists, he had high expectations and became easily frustrated if he didn’t meet them. How did this young athlete transform his mental game and performance in short six months, even winning a regional tournament in southern Spain? The Answer may surprise you. Read on to find out… Jane’s son’s challenges, Jane says, were twofold.... [Read More...]

When Talented Kids with Bad Attitudes Get More Playing Time

One of our readers recently asked a great question: Why do hard-working, less talented kids generally get less playing time than the talented athletes who have not-so-great work ethics and attitudes? “My son plays ice hockey and is a goalie,” says our reader, a sports dad. “He is small but very hard working and admittedly less talented than the team’s other goalie but not greatly.” “The biggest difference between the two goalies... [Read More...]

These Sports Kids Are Prone To Emotional Tantrums

I have a special announcement for you today, but first I want to share a parent’s story with you… Over the last few weeks, several parents and coaches posted comments on our video about why kids become frustrated in sports. If you missed the first two videos in this series, you can watch it on our blog: “How Athletes Become Frustrated” Video As a matter of fact, parents contact us every day with their stories. One sports parent... [Read More...]

How Are Sports Kids Their Own Worst Enemies?

Just how many ways can young athletes sabotage their sports performance? In lots of ways, says Dr. Harold Shinitzky, a sports psychologist and author of “Your Mind: An Owner’s Manual for a Better Life.” “A lot of athletes, based on how they think of themselves, engage in behaviors that interfere with their ultimate performance. That’s the saboteur,” he says. Examples? When kids decide to eat poorly, get little sleep, or engage in other... [Read More...]

High Expectations and Anger in Youth Sports

As sports parents, it’s your job to understand anger management. That’s because anger erupts too often on the field or in the gym—and it’s always disruptive and destructive. That’s the word from Joe Bouffard, director of the Youth Football Coaches Association, a group that teaches coaches—among other things–how to handle anger in youth sports. “Unfortunately, anger management needs to be addressed in all aspects of youth sports.... [Read More...]