Issues & Advice

The problem slappers have always had with the current scoring system is that it doesn’t accurately reflect their ability to get on base. This is a proposal I think has been a long time coming, and one that is sure to be cheered by every lefty slapper and her parents. It’s a new stat that […]

There are things you can do to help your kids play safe, and stay engaged if they find themselves on the sidelines Although there’s really no way to guarantee injury prevention, Kevin Margarucci, USA Hockey’s manager of player safety, says there are things you can do to help your kids play safe, and stay engaged […]

The job of parents and coaches is to help swimmers discover the real reason behind their actions and inactions, and in doing so, help them unleash their true potential. It’s important to know why you do what you do…and why that’s important. Why do you swim? This is probably the most important question you can […]

Playing on a winning team is not synonymous with playing at the next level. Being a great player with skills, proper motivation, attitude and character might get you a chance at the next level. After the Vegas Golden Knights went on a historic run to the Stanley Cup Final in their first year, with an expansion draft roster, it […]

Kids build and develop athleticism by participating in a wide range of different sports and activities. My kid is six years old and plays on an 8U travel ball team called the Half Moon Bay Pirates. I was hesitant to let him play travel ball at such a ridiculously young age, but my dude, Leo, […]

As parents, it’s important to remember that you should set an example of handing your emotions instead of letting your emotions handle you. This is a lesson your child can take into the game as well. The pressure and heat of competition bring out the best and the worst in athletes and parents. I’ve been amazed to […]

Each child is different, and relationships vary, but we can reflect on what we do daily for our children and what they can start doing on their own. My kids are in college and I’m learning that how I behaved as an age group swim parent has a direct relationship to their success or troubles once they […]

Youth football games are for families to convene and cheer for their team as a bonding experience. Avoid being a distraction, that is not what your athlete needs. Just enjoy the game and don’t be that parent. Naturally, parents have high expectations of their kids, as a youth football coach you will need to educate parents […]

When kids join youth sports they might be looking for a boost in confidence, some basic instruction in the sport, lessons in teamwork and the development of skills. If the kids have an effective coach, those goals are within reach. “I got recruited to coach my kid’s soccer team. Any advice?” The most recent time […]

Coaches will notice your extra effort and take note, they want athletes who are willing to go the extra mile. If you make a mistake, take responsibility and use it as a learning experience and work hard in the next round. First impressions are everything when it comes to volleyball tryouts. They can be the […]