145 How Can I Help My Children Who Suffer With Nerves Before They Compete?

Demystifying Mental Toughness

In this short solo episode, I answer a question posed by a parent. “How can I help my son, a goalkeeper who gets very grumpy and nervous the evening before a match?” Many children across a range of sports face this challenge, often talking themselves into performing poorly before they go out to play a match or compete. They let nervousness win. Today’s episode is set up to help parents where I share some ideas on how you could adapt your approach so that you help your children.

Key Learning

• Consider if you are providing emotional support or if you are drawn into problem solving?
• Offer your children some space.
• Help your children to find ways to switch off from their sport.
• Be careful not to over-coach your children.
• Consider if practice the day or evening before is fun and relaxing or actually fuelling anxiety and perfectionism.

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Relevant Podcast Episodes

Ep008: Brendan Pearson - Academy Football, Professional Football, Injuries and Early Retirement

Ep074: David Charlton - How Can I Make My Child Feel Confident?

Ep087: Carl Bell - From Professional Football and Goalkeeping to Physiotherapy

Ep112: David Charlon - How to Deal with Physical Insecurities as a Young Athlete

Ep122: Prof Camilla Knight - Helping Your Children Get The Most From Their Sporting Experiences

Other Relevant Blogs and Resources

Blog: Pre Match Tips for Parents

Blog: 5 Reasons Why Being Released from a Football Academy is Difficult

Blog: How To Overcome Self-Doubt When You’re A Goalkeeper

Blog: Goalkeepers – Does your warm up have to be perfect for you to feel confident

Blog: Do You Focus Too Much on the Opposition as a Goalkeeper