How Can You Boost Kids’ Determination in Sports?

Fostering Determination in Sports Kids

Inner determination and will are critical in youth sports, says Kirk Mango–a coach, National Champion and 3-Time All-American.

They help young athletes push themselves beyond their normal limitations and do things they never thought possible.

It all boils down to this:

Kids-and adults-who are determined don’t blame their circumstances.

Paraphrasing the author George Bernard Shaw, determined people get up and find the circumstances they want. If they can’t find them, they make them, says Mango.

“As simple as it sounds, it is all about the ‘doing’ more than anything else,” he says.

And just what characterizes athletes who possess inner determination and will? First of all, they focus on the process, instead of the outcome, says Mango.

In fact, they take enjoyment in repeating the same (sometimes mundane) tasks over and over. That’s generally what separates the great athletes.

Passion and enjoyment play a big role here, he adds. “I like to talk about enjoying the process. You’re doing something repeatedly and taking satisfaction in being able to do it a little better than you did it moments ago. I can’t tell you how many times my coach in college would give me the key and I locked up the gym.”

So how can parents and coaches foster kids’ determination?

First of all, they can share inspirational stories about athletes who overcame big obstacles. Bethany Hamilton, Jim Abbott, Wilma Rudolph, Jim McClaren, Anthony Robles are all good examples.

What’s more, parents and coaches can help kids focus on the process-not on the score or win. To do this, parents and coaches should help kids set mini-goals that help ground them in the here-and-now.

For example, an offensive lineman might focus on certain tasks, such as figuring out what the defense tends to do, visualizing or feeling the play, rehearsing the play, or setting up a stance.


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