What Every Athlete Needs and Every Parent Can Provide
- Jeff Becker
- Dec 24, 2025
- 1 min read
The most powerful thing you can give your child after a game happens before the car even starts moving.
It is not a question.
Not feedback.
Not a breakdown of what happened out there.
It is a hug.
A hug says you matter. You are loved. And nothing about this game changes that.
Your athlete already knows how they played. They have replayed every missed shot, every mistake, every moment they wish they could redo. What they do not know yet is whether they are safe with you in this moment.
Research consistently shows that athletes who feel unconditional parental support experience lower anxiety, greater confidence, and improved long-term performance. When athletes know their worth is not tied to results, pressure drops, trust grows, and
they are more willing to compete freely.
Before the seatbelt clicks, before the drive starts, before emotions spill into the car. Give them something they can count on.
No coaching.
No fixing.
Just love.
There will be time to talk later. But in that moment, what they feel and what they remember matters most. They may forget the score, but they will always remember how they felt in that car and how you showed up for them.
That is what lasts...A hug.
After a game, which response best reflects your typical parenting approach?
I immediately ask questions about the game & what happened.
I give feedback or instruction right away.
I stay quiet but focus on the result.
I lead with a hug or simple support.
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