Setting expectations in youth sports - Would you expect a 7 year-old to sit for an A-level exam?

In youth sports, success is often narrowly defined by wins, scores, and trophies. However, applying adult standards to children's activities can be misguided. We wouldn't expect a five-year-old to sit for an A-level exam; instead, we assess them based on age-appropriate milestones. Yet, in sports, this perspective is sometimes overlooked, leading to unrealistic expectations and potential negative outcomes for young athletes. Judging children by adult metrics can lead to feelings of inadequacy and failure. While failure has a positive function, we need to be grounded as coaches to make sure that we are in a cool state to emphasise on learning through dissapointments. Research indicates that many young athletes quit sports due to a lack of enjoyment, excessive pressure, and perceived failure.

Introducing John Wooden…

John Wooden, one of the most respected coaches in basketball history, viewed success as much more than just winning. He famously said:

 "Success is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best you are capable of becoming." 

His philosophy emphasised effort, character, and improvement over results, reinforcing the idea that success in youth sports should focus on development rather than trophies.

To foster a more supportive environment, it's essential to redefine success in youth sports through various dimensions:

1. Personal Development: Emphasise the growth of life skills such as teamwork, leadership, discipline, and resilience. Recognizing improvements in these areas validates the holistic development of young athletes.

2. Enjoyment and Engagement: Monitor the fun and enthusiasm children exhibit during sports activities. A positive and enjoyable experience is crucial for sustained participation and overall well-being.

3. Effort and Progress: Acknowledge the hard work and improvements, regardless of the outcome. Celebrating effort fosters a growth mindset and encourages continuous learning.

4. Social Connections: Assess the quality of relationships and friendships among teammates. Strong social bonds enhance the sports experience and contribute to a sense of belonging.

Supporting Young Athletes

Coaches and parents play a pivotal role in nurturing a positive sports environment:

• Set Realistic Expectations: Align goals with the child's age and developmental stage, focusing on personal growth rather than just winning.

• Encourage Multi-Sport Participation: Allow children to explore various sports to develop diverse skills and prevent burnout. Early specialisation can lead to decreased enjoyment.

• Provide Positive Reinforcement: Offer constructive feedback and celebrate successes, big or small, to build confidence and motivation.

• Foster Open Communication: Create an environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings and concerns about their sports experiences.

• Educate on Coping Strategies: Teach children how to handle setbacks and losses, emphasizing that these are part of the learning process.

By broadening our definition of success and tailoring our support to the developmental needs of young athletes, we can create a more inclusive and positive sports culture. This approach not only enhances retention rates but also contributes to the overall growth and happiness of children in sports.