Volume 23, Issue 23 | February 13, 2024

Supporting Our Athletes

Studies suggest that children today experience more stress, anxiety and depression than ever before. In fact, a series of surveys by the American Psychological Association show that since 2013, the level of stress reported by children is greater than that of adults. It's an alarming trend by any measure. For young athletes, that stress can be even greater - increased by the demands of sports on top of school, family life and social dynamics. So how do we know if our child is experiencing unhealthy levels of stress and what can we do about it?


This week's video is from Bill Matthews, a licensed counselor who works with families on issues such as this. Matthews encourages parents to begin by having a simple conversation. Ask your child what they're feeling and how you can be more supportive as a parent. Don't assume you understand or that you have all the answers. Listen to what they say and try to understand their feelings. Matthews notes that even well meaning parents can be quick to downplay a child's experience (i.e. you shouldn't feel that way) or try to fix the problem. Instead, our kids need to know that we understand them. They also need to know that we love them unconditionally.


This week, take a moment to ask your child if they are experiencing any feelings of stress or anxiety. Ask them how they feel and when they feel that way.


The stress felt by children and young adults is real. By building a relationship of trust, asking questions and offering our support, parents can help young athletes to identify the issues causing stress or anxiety and work toward a solution. When the situation is too big to overcome on their own, we can also help by guiding them to a licensed professional or physician. Whatever the outcome, our children will be glad to have our support.

"The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

Lamentations 3:22-23

Dad, I Quit

We know that 70% of children in the United States drop out of sports by the age of 13, with the most frequent reason that it's simply not fun anymore. This video from the Brafa Foundation sheds light the role parents can play in creating a toxic youth sports experience. It's worth taking a moment to think about our own behavior; if our child wrote a letter about how we make them feel when we watch them play, what would it say?

A Prayer for Families

Wednesday, February 14th marks Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Lenten season for Christians across the world. As we begin this period of prayer, fasting and almsgiving that prepares us for the ultimate celebration of Easter, we pray for guidance from our Heavenly Father and recognize that sport can play a role in developing strength in virtue.


God of goodness and mercy, Hear my prayer as I begin this Lenten journey with you. Let me be honest with myself as I look into my heart and soul, noticing the times I turn away from you. Guide me as I humbly seek to repent and return to your love. May humility guide my efforts to be reconciled with you and live forever in your abundant grace. Transform me this Lent, heavenly Father. Give me the strength to commit myself to grow closer to you each day. Amen.

Prayer from Dynamic Catholic's Best Lent Ever

Access Resources & Learn More at PlayLikeaChampion.org

Play Like a Champion Today Educational Series

PO Box 72, Notre Dame, IN 46556 | information@playlikeachampion.org

www.playlikeachampion.org

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA!

Facebook  Twitter  Instagram  Youtube