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Young athletes face intense pressure from coaches, teammates, parents and themselves that can lead to performance anxiety, burnout, and loss of joy in sports they once loved.

• Spotting signs of unhealthy stress: increased heart rate at rest, irritability, trouble concentrating, persistent fatigue beyond normal training tiredness
• Journaling, mindfulness exercises, and trusted communication with coaches help young athletes manage stress
• Setting realistic, process-oriented goals shifts focus from overwhelming outcomes to specific achievable progress
• Pre-performance routines give athletes a sense of control, transforming nervous energy into focused preparation
• Creating supportive environments where athletes can discuss fears without judgment is crucial
• Parents should examine their own expectations and celebrate effort and growth rather than just winning

Think about how you can create opportunities for open conversations with your young athlete about pressure they might be feeling and shift focus from winning to celebrating their effort and growth.