This Week’s Playbook. There’s an ancient proverb that tells us: “sometimes the teacher can become the stumbling block”. In today’s world, that' means sometimes (ironically) we need to step out of our kids’ way in order for them to learn. So this week we have some tips for building their confidence, filling their emotional tank, and of course some trending reels.

With the right structure, conversations, and mindset, parents and coaches can keep sports fun and sustainable.

—Ian Goldberg, CEO of Signature Media | Read More →

You care so much about your kid's sports experience that you're analyzing games on the drive home and googling "how much extra training is too much" at 11 p.m. Your heart is in the right place, but here's the thing: sometimes the best support means creating space for your kid to lead. From helping them set their own goals to knowing when to let them talk to the coach themselves, we're breaking down how to be actively supportive without accidentally becoming the team's unofficial assistant coach. Plus, the one question that always works on the car ride home. Support their journey and read on.

—Maddie Soviero

Or find other tips for sideline parents here:

You make sure your kid eats before the game, pack the snacks, bring the water bottle (and the backup), and fuel their body for competition. But what about their emotions? The Buddy System—yes, the same one from field trips—pairs teammates who have one job: fill each other's emotional tanks. When a U10 player misses the ball, her buddy tells her to brush it off. When another nails a technique, her buddy celebrates it. Turns out, "shake it off" means way more coming from a peer than from a parent or coach. From how to set it up on your team to why peer encouragement works better than adult pep talks, we're breaking down the simple strategy that transforms team culture. Fill those tanks and read on.

—Ian Goldberg

Or add some other tools to your athlete’s toolbox:

Why not parlay your next tournament into a family vacation? This week’s article rounds up 8 U.S. destinations where youth sports and family fun intersect — from Cooperstown to San Diego — all with IHG Hotels & Resorts making travel easier for sports families.. Start your journey here…

—Kim Pope

Have a great sports week,

Ian Goldberg, Editor-in-Chief

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