Quiet Sidelines, Sharper Players

The Pressure of Losing

The amount of time and money invested in youth sports can make it feel like the end of the world when your child loses a match. It may feel like a scholarship is in jeopardy, or that the week is ruined. The truth is, however, that if you trust the process, things will be easier. Stressing out, yelling at referees and coaches, pacing the sideline, and getting overly involved is just going to make things worse.

Calm Down and Let Your Child Enjoy the Game

Remember, the goal is not to win every game, but to develop as a player and as a person. By creating a positive and supportive environment, we can help players reach their full potential and develop a lifelong love of soccer. Every week I am shocked (or not-so-shocked) to hear about parents and coaches getting kicked out of a match. Rarely is it justifiable.

Focus on the Process

Instead of focusing on the outcome of each game, try to focus on the process. Are your child's skills improving? Are they enjoying the game? Are they learning valuable life lessons? If the answer is yes, then the outcome of any individual game is less important.

Trust the Process

Trusting the process means believing in your child's ability to develop and grow over time. It means understanding that setbacks are a normal part of the learning process. By staying calm and supportive, you can help your child navigate the ups and downs of youth sports.

The Importance of Long-Term Development

At Insight Soccer Training, we believe in a holistic approach to player development. We focus on building fundamental skills, understanding tactics, and developing valuable life lessons like communication, perseverance, and composure. By focusing on these aspects, we are setting players up for success both on and off the field.

The Dangers of the "Elite" Label

The label of "elite" can be detrimental to player development. It can lead to a focus on short-term results and winning, rather than long-term growth and learning. When players feel the pressure to perform at an elite level, it can negatively impact their confidence, enjoyment of the game, and overall development.

Additionally, many coaches who claim to have "elite" programs are often selling a gimmick. If everyone is elite, then no one is elite. At Insight Soccer Training, we make sure involved players are motivated to learn and are at a development threshold where private training will benefit their soccer development skills. But we have never sold our programs as, or labeled our players as "elite." We believe that a more balanced approach, focused on both personal development and skills development, is the key to long-term success in youth soccer.

Setting Healthy Goals

As you and your child prepare for the new season, we encourage you to set goals that are both healthy for the player and healthy for the family. Instead of focusing solely on winning, consider setting goals related to personal growth, skill development, and enjoying the game. Every player should be able to come away from practice with knowledge of a theme and practical ways that the theme impacts game situations. Have conversations that steer your child away from placing blame, and towards encouraging teammates that struggle.

The Role of Parents

Parents play a crucial role in their child's athletic development. By providing support, encouragement, and a positive environment, parents can help their children reach their full potential. Remember, the goal is not to create professional athletes, but to help children develop a lifelong love of the game. Children so often are a reflection of their parents. Act like the adult that you would like to see your child act like.

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