RLH #2 - Parenting in Sports: The Responsibility

As a professional, former athlete, an official and now a parent of a middle school athlete, I’ve learned that parenting in sports goes well beyond signing up for a team or sitting in the stands. Our role begins even before a child chooses a sport by encouraging physical activity (yes, going outside and playing), helping them discover what they enjoy, and supporting their first steps into athletics. Over time, our responsibilities shift to ensuring balance, protecting them, and guiding them through the ups and downs of practices, games, and everything in between. Beyond the physical commitment, it’s about making sure our kids feel safe, supported, and reminded that their worth is regardless of the outcome.

What I’ve also seen, both professionally and personally, is how important it is to strike the right balance in our involvement. Too little engagement leaves kids without the support they need, while too much pressure can make sports stressful instead of joyful. Knowing your child and knowing what works for them is critical and an ongoing process for some. Healthy involvement means being present, offering encouragement, and helping create balance between school, rest, fun, and athletics. When parents provide emotional support, structure, and perspective, sports become more than just games, they become opportunities to build resilience, confidence, and lifelong skills.

How do you, as a parent or caregiver, balance supporting your child in sports without adding unnecessary pressure?