The role of a parent to a student-athlete is both rewarding and challenging. From learning how to support your child after a tough loss to knowing when to step back during a game or to celebrating their victories, it can be challenging to know the best approach. To help guide you, we've compiled a list of "Do's and Don'ts" for those looking for some direction on where to start.

Let's get started.

DO be available to help their kids work and improve in their sport. 

• One of the biggest lessons that our children can learn from participating in sports is that working hard is the key to improvement. As parents, we can help them understand this by being available to help them work. Say yes the next time your child asks to throw the football or shoot hoops. Make your time available to them. Help learn hard work by working alongside them. 

DO encourage your child to create a safe space for them. 

• Your child needs to know that you're always in their corner, no matter their performance. You are cheering them on in the biggest wins but also in the hardest losses. They need a space where they feel proud to be who they are and how they participated in a game. Use language like "I love to watch you play" regardless of the game's outcome to reinforce that you are proud of their effort, not just the result.

DO be wise when the coaching moments with your child come.

• There will be moments when your child seeks guidance on improving their sport. In these moments, be wise in your words, know how your child receives coaching, and remember to create a safe space for them to feel encouraged. 

Now, let's talk about what NOT to do….

DON'T ignore the pressure that your kids feel.

• Our kids face a world full of pressures—social media, peer expectations, and the drive to excel in sports, to name a few. Our kids put immense pressure on themselves, in addition to the pressure society places on them. As a parent, it's important to be a source of relief, not added stress. Help sports become an outlet for your child by being intentional about your body language during games and focusing on encouraging them to relax.

DON'T be a coach. Be a parent.

• Let's be honest…it takes A LOT of self-control to release control during your child's sports game. It can feel almost impossible, but it's essential. At your child's next sporting event, remember that there is someone with the sole purpose of being in control - your child's coach. Your child's coach is there to focus on the strategy and technical aspects of the game. Your role is to support and encourage, not to coach from the sidelines. Trust the coach to do their job while you focus on being the best parent you can be.

Being a parent to a student-athlete requires a delicate balance of encouragement and guidance. But this balance is key to creating a positive and valuable sports experience for your child. You've got this!

This blog is inspired by GAC's Parent Partnership Series session from January 2025. Jeff Francoeur and Matt Stinchcomb joined GAC's athletic director, Tim Hardy, to encourage parents on the best practices for parenting a student-athlete of any age. Jeff Francouer, former Braves, Mets, and Royals baseball player hosts the Pure Athlete Podcast, where he encourages youth athletes and their parents on the sports journey. In addition to his impressive baseball history, he is a father to four kids with his wife, Catie, and is a softball coach for one of his daughters. Matt Stinchcomb is a former football player from the University of Georgia, Oakland Raiders, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Stinchcomb and his wife Jenny have three children who attend GAC, where he coaches Middle School Football and Lacrosse.