It’s such an easy trap to fall into because correction feels productive. It feels like we’re helping. But sometimes what a kid really needs is another rep and the belief that they’re capable of figuring it out.
Also loved the point that overcoaching is often about our discomfort, not theirs. That’s one of those observations that applies far beyond baseball.
Really well written and resonated with me. We finished baseball season last month and we tried our best to emphasize having fun and staying positive and not lecture on mistakes. It’s tough when you see so many parents putting pressure on their kids to succeed. One of the reasons I loved playing sports growing up was I got to play with my friends. Hoping to pass that onto my kids.
I was coaching my son in our last regular season game in flag football a couple of years ago. We were ahead and were capping off an undefeated season. I pulled him with a 30 seconds to go. He was so mad at me. He walked off the field with his hands in the air. "Why you pulling me before the game is over?" I pulled him over to me and put my arm around him. I leaned over and whispered in his ear, "Because I wanted you standing next to me when that clock hit zero, and we are officially undefeated." He perked up and smiled really big. Then whispered back, "Thanks." At that moment I stopped being his coach who happened to be his dad and became his dad who happened to be his coach. Thanks for jogging that great memory.
What a BOSS move! Dad coach has dad first for a reason. Thanks for sharing an amazing moment where you chose dad before coach. Core memory unlocked for sure!
It’s such an easy trap to fall into because correction feels productive. It feels like we’re helping. But sometimes what a kid really needs is another rep and the belief that they’re capable of figuring it out.
Also loved the point that overcoaching is often about our discomfort, not theirs. That’s one of those observations that applies far beyond baseball.
SUCH A TRAP. I have convinced myself more and more that my job during the game is to help them feel confident, have fun, and be good teammates.
If I didn’t coach them before the game on something, that belongs in the next practice.
Really well written and resonated with me. We finished baseball season last month and we tried our best to emphasize having fun and staying positive and not lecture on mistakes. It’s tough when you see so many parents putting pressure on their kids to succeed. One of the reasons I loved playing sports growing up was I got to play with my friends. Hoping to pass that onto my kids.
I appreciate that. The older I get, the more I think that’s exactly right.
When I look back on sports, I remember some games, but I mostly remember being with my friends.
It’s funny how often adults are carrying the pressure while kids are just hoping to have fun and be part of something.
That’s a perspective I’m trying hard to hold onto as a dad coach.
I was coaching my son in our last regular season game in flag football a couple of years ago. We were ahead and were capping off an undefeated season. I pulled him with a 30 seconds to go. He was so mad at me. He walked off the field with his hands in the air. "Why you pulling me before the game is over?" I pulled him over to me and put my arm around him. I leaned over and whispered in his ear, "Because I wanted you standing next to me when that clock hit zero, and we are officially undefeated." He perked up and smiled really big. Then whispered back, "Thanks." At that moment I stopped being his coach who happened to be his dad and became his dad who happened to be his coach. Thanks for jogging that great memory.
What a BOSS move! Dad coach has dad first for a reason. Thanks for sharing an amazing moment where you chose dad before coach. Core memory unlocked for sure!
Thanks! I have coached all four of my kids at least once. Making memories!