My children have all graduated college. They played town, club, HS and into college (D1 and D3). They played in town travel leagues, MAPLE/MASC, and various Regional Leagues. They travelled to many tournaments all over the US and abroad. They have too many trophies, medals and ribbons.
Looking back what do we think we should have done differently?
Was the journey worth it? For us it was a mixed bag. Mostly good. We learned from the experience of the oldest child and tried not to repeat the mistakes with the younger children.
Youth sport is a very tempting trap for parents. One needs to maintain perspective and such is very hard when so many hopes and dreams are placed on the children.
Looking back what do we think we should have done differently?
- We would have gotten the children involved in club soccer several years earlier than they entered it.
- We should have been more relaxed about the mania to attend every clinic, camp, showcase and tournament.
- We should have taken more time away from soccer to spend more quiet family time together.
- We would have never discussed games or practices on the ride home.
- Listened more to the children and less to the other parents.
- Made sure to the best of our ability that the children do not equate their self-worth with their soccer experience.
- Made sure the children know that we love them and will always be available to them.
Was the journey worth it? For us it was a mixed bag. Mostly good. We learned from the experience of the oldest child and tried not to repeat the mistakes with the younger children.
Youth sport is a very tempting trap for parents. One needs to maintain perspective and such is very hard when so many hopes and dreams are placed on the children.
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