Are you the proud parent or relative of a college athlete? Have they been in sports for a long time or are you relatively new to the game? If this is your first time as the parent of an athlete, much less a university athlete, it's good for you to realize ahead of time that there are going to be some adjustments necessary!
Let's face it, as an adult, you probably have a pretty busy schedule. So, when it comes to gymnastic meets, track meets, softball or basketball games, etc., you may not be able to catch every single one or every inning. Not that you don't want to, it's just hard to do. It's rough for kids if they don't see you in the stands, but it's a fact of life – parents can't always be present.
Fortunately, there are other ways of supporting a college athlete. Let's look at some manners in which you can show your support for your college athlete – whether they are your child, a niece or nephew, grandchild, or what have you.
Be a Good Listener
This is a pretty good rule of thumb no matter what we are talking about, but particularly with university athletes. There are going to be times when they need to talk about something. Even if you don't have a lot of useful input – maybe you're not particularly good at sports – the important thing is that you listen and be there for them.
Try Not to Hover
Especially if you're a parental figure in the life of a college athlete, it's hard not to hover. You care. You love them. When they’re with their team, that’s the team, coach, and players’ bonding time. Give them their space. Even after the game, wait for them to text or call you. They are likely still spending time with the team or their fans.
Even If You Can't Be There, Follow the Games
Naturally, you're going to try to attend every game, meet, etc., you can. But, as suggested earlier, you can't always be there. Make sure to at least follow each and every opportunity you can when it comes to the events in which they participate.
Remember Whose Job It Is to Coach
The team has a coach for a reason. As much as you might want to, try not to infringe on that coach’s territory. They’re the coach – you're not.
Where Does Your Athlete Shine?
Your student athlete likely has their own particular strengths. Help them remember those, especially if they’re feeling a little down on themselves – which is pretty unavoidable when it comes to sports. Not everybody plays perfectly 100% of the time.
Self-Advocacy Should Be Encouraged
Instill in your student athlete, and help them to always remember, that they are their own best advocate. If they're not getting enough playing time, they should address their coach privately. But they need to do it the right way. Help them with their communication skills, if necessary.
Help Them Remember Their Academics
Sports are important. That's true. But they have to keep their grades up as well. They may need reminding of this every once in a while. Suggest a tutor if they need more help.
Assist with Time Management
A pretty tight schedule is required of most student athletes. Homework, a couple of daily practices, conditioning workouts, and more can all begin as early as 5 AM – or earlier. They might need a little help now and then managing their schedule.
Love Every Minute of Being Associated with the College Athlete
Treasure each and every moment of this time because you will never have this opportunity again – at least not with this particular person. Don't waste one minute.
Encourage Them to Take a Break When They Need It
Too many athletes will just keep going, going, and going – worse than the Energizer Bunny! It's important that they know, when needed, they can take a break. They may feel pressured by fans, teammates, coaches, and more. They are constantly working to become stronger, faster, and bigger. To avoid burnout, and to help them reach their athletic performance peak, they must remain both emotionally and physically healthy.
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