The Top Rules for Helping Your Child Receive an Athletic Scholarship

27 May The Top Rules for Helping Your Child Receive an Athletic Scholarship

If you are a parent with a child who is looking to win a scholarship to further their studies, you are probably well aware that the recruiting process is a package that is full of anxiety, exhilaration, endurance, discipline, and patience. For many parents, they have started preparing their child for this moment since the first time they enrolled their child in a youth football, basketball, rugby, or tennis league. The money, sweat, and time they have invested over the years can make a mom or dad feel as though they are also applying for a scholarship.

The primary challenge for the parent with an athletic child is to walk the delicate line between helping to guide their child through the entire process and gradually becoming more overbearing. Although it can be easy for some parents to want to take total control, they must resist the temptation to dominate and instead find a balance between being a parent with a ‘hands off’ approach, and one who cannot help but micromanage every aspect of the child’s athletic regimen.

In fact, a parent who refuses to maintain that balance can pose a particular risk to their child. They may jeopardize the ability for their child to grow and learn from the experience.

Coaches are not interested in dealing with overbearing parents, so there is a list of golden rules to keep in mind when you are encouraging and supporting your athlete.

Do Not Become a Helicopter Mom or Dad

This is a rule that should apply no matter the child’s age. It is also a rule that should be followed no matter if you are working with your child, coach, or athletic director of the school. A helicopter parent is described as one who is always hovering over their child and they refuse to allow their child to think or act on their own. This can be difficult for some parents who live vicariously through the accomplishments their child makes.

Always remember that in the relationship of a parent and student/athlete, the child must become the captain of the team.

Teach Your Child the Importance of Humility

On the other end of the spectrum, a student-athlete who is very talented may receive too much praise and support. This can result in attitude problems and the child may also not be as motivated to take part in activities outside of their sporting activities.

Quality and effective parenting can mean the difference between raising a child who believes that he or she is at the top of the world, and a child who remains gracious and humble whilst excelling in their academic and athletic endeavors.

Be a Mentor and Assistant, Not Just a Cheerleader

You should be your child’s mentor and assistant. Even though being their cheerleader will also help to encourage them, your main job is to assist your child as needed.

The recruitment process can play a vital role in the child’s psyche. It is the parent’s job to ensure the child understands that rejection is part of this process, and that rejection does not diminish any of their talents or accomplishments.

These three factors will go a long way in preparing your child for future athletic opportunities. By creating a strong parent-athlete balance, your child will be ahead of the curve on scouting day.