Elite and Travel Teams Can Hurt Kids’ Confidence That’s the view of Hal Phillips, a former sports parent and youth soccer coach, plus author of Generation Zero: Founding Fathers, Hidden Histories and the Making of Soccer in America. He spoke with us recently during an interview for our Ultimate Sports … Read Sport Psychology Tip
When Sports Kids Believe They Can, They Build Confidence When they have unshakeable confidence, they are more resilient, overcome obstacles and increase the likelihood of accomplishing their goals. Belief, confidence and accomplishment are intertwined in youth sports. Belief sets the cycle in motion, but what creates belief? Kids may have … Read Sport Psychology Tip
We Often Hear this Scenario From Sports Parents… “My son is a top player but cannot perform any longer in matches when there is a crowd watching. He is 17, however he is as tight as a drum when playing matches now.” “He still wins but says he only gets … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Show Your Young Athlete That You Don’t Care About the Win That’s the word from Wayne LaMarre, clinical professor and director of the athletic training program at the University of New England. LaMarre is also on staff for the Women’s National Ice Hockey team and was recently a guest on … Read Sport Psychology Tip
Recruiters Evaluate Your Mental Game Young athletes who want to be recruited for college athletics, take heed: recruiters care about kids’ mental game. College coaches can learn about kids’ mental game in a number of ways, says 2aDays CEO and founder Keirsten Sires, an athlete who played tennis and soccer … Read Sport Psychology Tip
For college recruiters, players’ mental game is important. Recruiters learn about kids’ mental game skills–or deficiencies–by talking to high school coaches, watching game videos and watching both parents and players at games. Keirsten Sires, CEO and founder of 2aDays–which provides college coach ratings and experiences from athletes–gives tips about how … Read Sport Psychology Tip