Growing up, I enjoyed playing on various sports teams, but it was simply to have fun and meet new people. I wasn’t the competitive sports type. My husband, on the other hand, was the complete opposite. Being athletic and competitive, he participated on multiple sports teams starting when he was young. He often recalls the summer when his 10U travel baseball team made it to nationals as the best summer of his life. His team traveled throughout the summer and played their hearts out.
We now have a son in his third season of travel baseball, and he absolutely loves it. My husband is reliving his glory days as he helps coach the team. As a mom of a child in travel sports, I thought it would be helpful to share some insights from the moms of the players.
Here’s what I wish I had known going into our child’s first season on a competitive travel sports team.
What are the benefits of letting my child play travel sports?
Teamwork – Athletes work together on communication, supporting, encouraging, and pushing each other to be better in a positive way. Having the right attitude is just as important as athletic ability.
Hard Work – Kids will be challenged and expected to put in their best effort. It may not always be easy on hot, humid days or when their team is down by a considerable amount of points/runs, but those are great ways to push through and improve.
Setting Goals – The right coaches will encourage players to set various goals and work with them to help achieve them.
Self-Esteem – There is often an emotional struggle in young players when things aren’t going their way. Participating in competitive sports is a great way to work through those obstacles and overcome them. This gives kids the ability to grow mentally.
Friendships – It’s a great way for athletes and their families to meet people with the same interests. There is an opportunity to build relationships on and off the field to create a stronger team and its supporters/fans.
When should I start my child in travel sports?
This can vary from sport to sport and your child’s athletic ability. The general age is 8; however, athletes with talent and natural ability may be eligible to start earlier.
If your child has a passion for a particular sport and you see potential in them, it is worth having them try out to see if they make the team. This gives coaches the ability to observe your child’s skill level. It also allows you to work with your child and practice areas that need extra attention.
How do I prepare my child for travel sports?
The mental side of playing sports can be just as, if not more, important than the physical. Talking to your child in advance about the commitment level expected of them is key. Your child needs to understand that they will be held to high expectations if they make the team.
It is highly important to have supportive adults surrounding your child, working with them off the field, and building them up.
How can parents support athletes?
Speak positive and affirming words to your child. Support and backup their coaches. Often, a child’s behavior is reflective of their parent’s words and actions at home. Be mindful of creating a positive atmosphere.
Regardless of your athletic ability, take the time to learn and practice the sport with your child.
What expenses should I be prepared for with my child on a travel sports team?
Uniforms, equipment, gas, food, and overnight hotel stays all add up. Teams often raise money to offset these expenses; however, it’s important to budget accordingly.
Anything else I should know before we fully commit?
Keep in mind that it won’t always look the way you expected. Athletes, parents, and coaches don’t always get along. Your child may not play as often as you’d like during the game. You may disagree with your coach’s decisions one hundred percent of the time. The season can get very long and draining. Your child could abstain an injury, and the season could be cut short for them. Although these situations may not be ideal, they produce life skills you and your child will navigate together.
Participating in travel sports can change your child’s life. It’s a great way for you to connect with your child and create memories they will remember for years to come. If you are willing to fully support your child, the coaches, and the game, you will benefit in many ways.
