How to be a great squash parent during a tournament

As a squash coach and a parent myself, I understand the importance of parental support during a squash tournament. However, I also know that excessive pressure from parents can negatively impact a child’s performance and overall enjoyment of the sport. In this article, we will explore the significance of positive and supportive behaviour from parents and provide five key tips to help them navigate the challenges of supporting their child during a squash game.

The Pressure of Expectations

When parents push their children to perform, it can lead to anxiety, stress, and even burnout. Young athletes are already under a significant amount of pressure to perform well, and the added stress from parents can be overwhelming. This pressure can manifest in various ways, such as:

  • Fear of failure: Children may become too focused on avoiding mistakes rather than enjoying the game.
  • Loss of confidence: Constant criticism or negative feedback can erode a child’s confidence, making them hesitant to take risks.
  • Stress and anxiety: The fear of disappointing parents can lead to increased stress and anxiety, affecting their performance.

How you can be a Positive Parent

Parents play a crucial role in shaping their child’s experience in squash. By adopting a positive and supportive attitude, parents can help their child develop a love for the sport and improve their performance.

Here are five key tips for parents to remember when their child is playing a squash game:

1. Encourage and Praise Effort, Not Just Results

Focus on the process rather than the outcome. Praise your child for their hard work, dedication, and improvement, not just for winning or losing. This helps them understand that the journey is as important as the destination.

2. Be Patient and Calm

Stay calm and composed, even if your child makes mistakes. Avoid criticizing or shouting at them. This sets a positive example and helps your child stay focused and composed.

3. Set Realistic Goals

Help your child set realistic goals for themselves. This can be as simple as improving a specific shot or playing a full game without getting frustrated. By setting achievable goals, your child will feel more confident and motivated.

4. Respect the Referees and Opponents

Teach your child to respect the referees and opponents. Please encourage them to shake hands after a game, regardless of the outcome. This helps them develop good sportsmanship and a positive attitude.

5. Enjoy the Game Together

Make sure to enjoy the game with your child. Cheer them on, but avoid making it about winning or losing. Focus on the fun and excitement of playing squash. This helps create a positive and enjoyable atmosphere for both you and your child.

Closing thoughts

As a squash coach and a parent, I believe that positive and supportive behaviour from parents is essential for a child’s development and enjoyment of the sport. By following these five key tips, parents can help their child thrive in squash while maintaining a healthy and positive environment.

Remember, the most important thing is to encourage and support your child’s love for the game, not just their performance.

Written by Adele du Rand

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