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The number-one reason kids drop out of sports is stress, says Executive Director of the Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) Ed Tinder. Stress is often the result of well-intentioned parents or coaches who may set unrealistic expectations. For instance, kids should be told that mistakes are part of the learning process and should not be feared. They should not result in berating a child in front of his or her peers. Kids often think that adults base their value on them by the number of mistakes they make.
Another way kids face too much stress is when goals are set that are not within their control. For example, winning is not within their control, but hustling and trying to improve skills is. Certain sports can cause more anxiety than others because of the environment in which they are played. For example, an athlete on the football field is covered with pads and a helmet and surrounded by teammates. Fans are so far away that eye contact is difficult, and comments usually aren't heard. In contrast, basketball players are clearly identifiable and are very close to fans. "Performing is like taking a test live in front of hundreds of people," says Tinder.
Educate kids about how goal setting can be used in other areas of their life, like school. While they can't control how hard the tests will be, they can control how hard they study, making them well prepared.
Too Much of a Good Thing?
If you're worried about kids' schedules being too active, Tinder suggests parental attitude is important to how kids view their lives and their activities. "When parents are busy spending time with their kids at something that is very important to them, it creates a great opportunity for quality time and will be remembered years later. It's very positive."
"There is value to being on a team. The number of kids involved in sports is unprecedented. They are learning valuable skills like goal setting, competition, learning to win and lose, and skill development that can be carried into the rest of their lives," adds Tinder. | 
