Just as it is important to be physically
prepared to play youth sports it is equally important for youth athletes
to be mentally prepared to handle the pressure. No one can predict
exactly how a match will play out, but you can arm your athlete with
techniques to overcome pressure from the competition. Here are some
methods for overcoming challenges during the match.
First, teach your athletes to reframe bad situations— transforming their negative emotions into positive ones.
For example, if your child went from having a
three-point lead to a one-point lead in the final session, they may be
feeling discouraged. But encourage them to focus on the positive: “If
before the match we knew going into the final session that you’d have
the lead, wouldn’t you be happy?” You don’t deny the reality of the
match, but choose to find the positive in a seemingly negative
situation.
Next, arm your youth athletes with tools to
control their emotions. A key to being a better player is learning how
to use those emotions constructively. Control your emotions, rather than
letting them control you.
A bad call, cheap shot from an opponent or noise
from hostile spectators may increase pressure and negative emotions,
but encouraging players to experience those emotions as a fun part of
the challenge and thrill of competition can keep things from getting
worse. One way athletes can do this is by allowing themselves a moment
to refocus. Take deep breaths, or use encouraging self-talk phrases like
“let it go” or “it’s ok.” Be in charge of your emotions.
There are many more techniques athletes can use to avoid caving in to pressure during the match. Check out this graphic to see how using the three B’s is a simple way to help your athletes overcome match-time anxiety.
Help your youth athlete beat stress and overcome pressure with this helpful tool from Liberty Mutual Insurance Play Positive™. Learn more.
At Liberty Mutual Insurance,
we constantly look for ways to celebrate the countless acts of
sportsmanship and integrity shown by people every day. We created Play Positive™, powered by Positive Coaching Alliance,
as part of this belief to help ensure that our kids experience the best
that sports have to offer in environments that promote and display good
sportsmanship. We believe kids can learn valuable life lessons when
coaches and parents come together to support winning on and off the mat.