The Aspen Institute held its fifth annual Project Play Summit earlier this month in Detroit, Michigan. I was lucky to join more than 500 thought leaders in the worlds of sports and health for two days of thought-provoking panels and breakout sessions. Panelists addressed many of the key issues in youth sports while also offering […]
Transitions
Parent-Coach Relationships Don’t Have To Be Nightmarish. We Promise.
Highlight Reel: Rather than seeing each other as competition, parents and coaches can work together to build a positive sports culture that benefits everyone on the team. “Sorry, I’ve got to go deal with this parent.” “I’ll be late – I have to handle this situation with the coach.” Many parent/coach interactions fall under the […]
This Time, It’s Personal: Is Private Instruction a Good Choice for Your Sport Specialized Child?
Highlight reel: Some personal coaches are exceptional in every sense of the word, but some are toxic and untrained. Keeping the right perspective and setting realistic expectations are critical when choosing the right instruction. Follow these tips to find the person or group who will enhance — not destroy — your child’s love of a […]
The Kids Are NOT Alright. When Sports Injuries In Youth Threaten Their Future, Sampling Can Help.
When I think back on my experience as a kid playing sports, there were pickup games, the start of lifelong friendships, and wins and losses (of course), but mainly I remember how much fun I had. Watching my kids now — and talking to my friends and the other team parents — I’m blown away […]