Twenty years ago this was also the trend. I saw parents, at the high school level, move their child from school to school, because the coach didn't recognize the "talent" of their child. Both of my children played on state level travel teams. I never thought either of them would play beyond high school. I knew then that there were a lot more academic scholarships that went unused than athletic scholarships. That is true today as well. Parents, if you want your child to succeed, use 10% of the amount you would spend on chasing athletics and put that into academic pursuits. Much much more ROI.
I set up my sports club to give local children the chance to improve. At no point do I tell the parents their child could make it to a level beyond one year ahead (i.e they might make it to the next age group/ selection stage). No one can predict that far ahead: coaches who do, should be ashamed.
Thanks for sharing the insights. I registered too late so missed the cut off, but will try again next yr! So much to be done to support our kids in loving the journey and educating the adults to not being so focused on the outcome.
Oh no! Holy crap!! I knew the youth sports parent delusion was bad but I would’ve guessed half this and still felt like I was being cynical / overly understanding of parents’ belief in their children. This is insane!
Thank you for Melissa for this. Tremendous post. Great to read how encouraging the Project Play summit was.
Twenty years ago this was also the trend. I saw parents, at the high school level, move their child from school to school, because the coach didn't recognize the "talent" of their child. Both of my children played on state level travel teams. I never thought either of them would play beyond high school. I knew then that there were a lot more academic scholarships that went unused than athletic scholarships. That is true today as well. Parents, if you want your child to succeed, use 10% of the amount you would spend on chasing athletics and put that into academic pursuits. Much much more ROI.
Such a great point, Max. I don't know why bragging about your kid's academic achievements isn't as enticing as bragging about sports. It should be.
Why brag at all? Just give your children a cuddle and be kind.
So good! Sorry I missed you at PP, was a great event for sure.
same! let’s catch up soon.
I crashed my car
I set up my sports club to give local children the chance to improve. At no point do I tell the parents their child could make it to a level beyond one year ahead (i.e they might make it to the next age group/ selection stage). No one can predict that far ahead: coaches who do, should be ashamed.
I also worked with our Parish Council to improve the FREE local facilities, so all children have the opportunity to play in our parks: https://excelsiorgroup.co.uk/choosing-the-right-equipment-for-your-local-park/
Of course, none of this makes me rich (financially) becuase some parents go to where they are sold the false dreams..
Thanks for sharing the insights. I registered too late so missed the cut off, but will try again next yr! So much to be done to support our kids in loving the journey and educating the adults to not being so focused on the outcome.
Oh no! Holy crap!! I knew the youth sports parent delusion was bad but I would’ve guessed half this and still felt like I was being cynical / overly understanding of parents’ belief in their children. This is insane!
Thank you for Melissa for this. Tremendous post. Great to read how encouraging the Project Play summit was.