Are you wondering how to best support your child’s journey in sports? In this enlightening episode, we sit down with John O’Sullivan from the Changing the Game Project to dive deep into the world of youth sports and the pivotal role parents play.

What I cover in this episode:

• Learn about John’s transition from athlete and coach to a youth sports reform advocate.
• John shares his motivations for starting an initiative to make youth sports more child-centric.
• Discussion on the positive changes in youth sports starting from the family level.
• Insights into how parents can help their children discover and enjoy their sports passions.
• Identifying typical mistakes parents make in their children’s sports journeys.
• Tips for selecting a coach and environment that best suit your child.
• The importance of supportive communication and giving space to young athletes.
• How to match your aspirations with your child’s interests in sports.
• Encouraging children to own their sports experience and find internal motivation.
• Advice on handling difficult coaching scenarios and when to intervene.
• Key takeaways for parents to support and nurture their child’s sports experience.

Tune in for a comprehensive discussion on fostering a positive and supportive sports environment for your child.

Episode Highlights: 

[00:00] Improving youth sports with mental performance coach and author John O’Sullivan. Learn more about the man behind the Changing the Game Project, his journey from a collegiate and professional soccer player to a youth sports advocate.

[05:27] Parental role in youth sports and creating positive experiences for children. Discover the importance of prioritizing children’s well-being in sports, with an emphasis on the need for families and communities to make changes to benefit student athletes.

[10:08] Parenting and supporting children in sports. Learn more about the importance of aligning parental goals with a child’s goals in sports, rather than pushing them towards a specific achievement that doesn’t align with their desires.

[15:20] Navigating coaching issues as a parent. Discover the importance of recognizing when to step in and when to let children face challenges and learn from them.

[18:56] Parenting and coaching in sports. Key takeaways for parents to support and nurture their child’s sports experience.

Next Steps:

• Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
• Visit our podcast website for more great episodes

Thank you in advance for joining us on our mission and leaving a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

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