Bari Suman

Sports Parents, this is for you. How you talk to your child matters. Here are 10 Phrases that All Athletes Need to Hear... 1: “I LOVE WATCHING YOU PLAY" This is a powerful statement to a child. There is no judgment or criticism. Ultimately, this is all you really need to say. 2: “I BELIEVE IN YOU” Do you want to build confidence in your child? Tell them you believe in them. They need to hear this from adults. 3: "DO YOUR BEST" We are all different. We all have different skill sets. All we can ever do is our best. 4: "BE GREAT AT WHAT YOU ARE GOOD AT" This encourages athletes to focus on their strengths. It helps kids define their role on the team. 5: "LOVE YOUR TEAMMATES" The joy of team sports comes from the commitment to your teammates. Athletes need to care about their teammates. 6: "NEXT PLAY" This is a move-on mindset. Don't dwell on a mistake and make another. Don’t celebrate after a great play so much that you lose your focus. This teaches athletes composure and poise. 7: "MAKE MEMORIES" Live in the moment. A season goes fast. Your high school career goes fast. Appreciate the moments and cherish the memories. 8: “PASS THE MIRROR TEST" Can you look in the mirror each night? And tell yourself that you did your best, left it on the field or court, were a good teammate, etc. 9: "LEAD BY EXAMPLE" This is the first step to leadership. Be on time, and have a high character. Bring positive energy. Be one of the hardest workers. Be committed. 10: “LEAD OUT LOUD" Lead by Example, then Lead Out Loud. Be a Vocal Leader. Be an Encourager. Be willing to hold teammates accountable. _____ Follow me @gregberge for more Actionable Ideas on Coaching, Leadership, Culture, and Teams. Join 8800+ others and subscribe to my free weekly newsletter. The subscription link is in my profile.