I played football through most of my life up to this point. As I begin to study the deeper parts of athletic mindsets and all that it involves, I realize how useful support systems are when helping an athlete through camp and even more through season. As a support system, the most helpful or damaging thing were are involved in, is how we respond to an athlete talking about their schedule or experience.

If you have played sports, you know, being in season limits how much free time you truly have. As I was talking to my brother who is on the cusp of starting his senior year at a Division 1 football program, I found myself in the crossroads of two different responses.

In my collegiate experience, when I would tell people that I have practice and meetings on a Saturday, as my brother was telling me, most people would respond with “Dang, you have all that on a Saturday? They are trying to wear you out.”

The athlete is aware that they are busy and hearing something along those lines, most likely wont feel as good as they should for prepping for the game time. Instead, as I did, a response should more encouraging and validating:

“I see you! Gotta get those reps in for the game next week. I am glad you are getting lunch and some down time for you practice and meetings later. What are you working on this coming practice?”

We, as a support system plan a bigger role that one may think. When talking to an athlete who is also juggling all of the life things as well. Be a legit support and not being another burden, small or big on them.

How do you support your athlete?