Are Parents Over-Pressuring Kids in American Sports?
Parents and coaches in the United States are often criticized for pushing their children too hard into sports. While the intention is typically to foster discipline, teamwork, and general physical fitness, such rigorous expectations can have negative long-term effects. This article delves into the issue from a coach's perspective and discusses the pitfalls of overscheduling kids in sports.
Coaching and Pushing: A Coach's Perspective
I coached my boys in soccer and baseball for many years, and I consistently pushed them to excel. However, I recognize that there are extreme cases among parents and coaches who push their children beyond their limits. These coaches often have an inflated sense of what constitutes success, often living through their children's glory days. This overzealous approach can lead to significant stress for the child and potentially lifelong injuries.
For instance, my boys frequently complained about knee pain in their mid- and early-20s. Despite this discomfort, they continued to enjoy competitive sports. On the other hand, there are some whom I refer to as "Cucomunga" (a term I used for extreme cases), who push their children too hard. These children are often not as skilled as their parents, leading to dissatisfaction and even physical harm due to the pressure.
Parents and Sports: A Double-Edged Sword
Many parents do indeed push their children into sports, believing that it will instill valuable qualities like teamwork, discipline, and hard work. However, this approach can have detrimental effects. According to studies, around 80% of children drop out of organized sports by the end of grade school. One of the primary reasons is that the children find it no longer enjoyable. This is a critical point; enjoyment is a fundamental aspect of engaging in any activity, and if it is not present, the benefits of the activity are diminished.
Another factor is the type of coaching. Many coaches focus on winning, yelling, and giving very little fun during practices. This approach does not align with the natural interests of children. Children will naturally gravitate towards activities that interest them. Alleviating this by adults can be seen as beneficial for everyone involved.
The Mess in Youth Sports
Looking at current youth sports culture provides a clear picture of the problem. Many children are not having fun at young ages. The pressure to perform and the rigid structure of practices and games can lead to disengagement. Additionally, children who are not naturally athletic or fast are often overlooked and pushed into sports that suit only a small portion of the population, leading to frustration and resentment.
Furthermore, some sports can be particularly dangerous. For example, football is known to cause serious injuries, which can have lifelong consequences. While these injuries are a valid concern, the pressure to perform in any sport can overshadow the importance of enjoying the process and developing a true love for the activity.
Conclusion: Finding Balance
Parents and coaches need to find a balance between pushing their children and respecting their personal interests and abilities. Encouraging children to try different activities and listening to them when they express a lack of enjoyment or interest is crucial. This way, children can develop a sense of self and find activities they genuinely love, leading to better outcomes in both their personal lives and their sporting careers.
Parents and coaches should reflect on the true goals of youth sports. Activities like sports should aim to instill values such as teamwork, discipline, and hard work. If an activity is forced upon a child, they are likely to resent it, leading to negative outcomes. Addressing this issue is essential for the well-being of our future generations.