Youth Sports Psychology Articles

Signs of Performance Anxiety in Young Athletes

Young Athletes Performance Anxiety

How to Help Young Athletes Enjoy Sports Many athletes limit their performance due to anxiety, tension, worry, and fear. Sports are supposed to be fun, not stressful for your athletes, right? Parents and coaches, we can help you identify when sports kids are suffering from anxiety–and determine how to help … Read Sport Psychology Tip

Important Dos and Don’ts for Sports Parents Before Games

Sport Parent Dos and Don'ts

How to Help Athletes be Relaxed before a Game Parents want to know what to tell their athletes before a game that will help them perform well and feel less pressure… For example, parents say: *Do you coach your kids on what to do? *Do you let them mentally prepare … Read Sport Psychology Tip

Why Young Athletes Avoid Mental Training

Trust in Skills

Athletes’ Acceptance of Mental Training Often, young athletes don’t understand the benefits of mental game training. They say they’re already mentally strong. Or they’re afraid that they’ll have to sit on a couch and reveal their innermost vulnerabilities. Mostly, they don’t understand what mental game training is–or its benefits. To … Read Sport Psychology Tip

The Expectations Trap for Perfectionists

Perfectionist's Expectations

Young Athletes who are Perfectionist “I have a son, age 15. He is skilled in many sports at school. Rugby, Hockey, XC running and Athletics (sprint and long jump where he holds the school record in both these).” “When he makes a mistake he can ‘lose’ it and can be … Read Sport Psychology Tip

Parents: Are Your Athletes Having Fun?

Making Sure Young Athletes are Motivated and Happy

How to Keep Athletes in the Game A sports parent asks: “My son is a HS freshman with huge potential in football but is not wanting to pursue it, he says he does not feel ‘passionate’ about it, even after being told by a few retired coaches and refs that … Read Sport Psychology Tip