They’re fiery, fiercely independent, and sometimes downright defiant. But here’s the secret: your strong-willed athlete might just be a future world-changer. The question is, how do you survive the journey?

As a sports parent, you’ve probably wondered what you can do to keep your child motivated and engaged in sports without pushing too hard. The journey of raising an athlete is full of highs and lows, and finding that balance can feel like an Olympic feat. I had the chance to unpack this complex dynamic with Asia Mape, founder of I Love to Watch You Play, in a recent episode of the Raising Elite Competitors Podcast. Asia’s insights as a three-time Emmy-winning sports journalist, former Division I athlete, and mom of three daughters (two of whom are Division I athletes) bring a wealth of wisdom to the world of sports parenting.

Does this sound like you? You’re grinding at practice, showing up for every workout, and giving it your all. You’re serious about your sport, but now you’re starting to realize something: everyone else is, too. The higher you go, the more you see that every athlete is putting in the work. So, how do you stand out? How do you separate yourself from the pack when the competition is just as dedicated?

Let’s be real: being a sports mom is hard. You’re navigating tournaments, practices, teenage mood swings, and figuring out how to support your daughter through the highs and lows of her athletic journey. And when it comes to her confidence and mental game? That’s a whole different beast.

How do you know if your athlete is truly ready for mental training? What’s the right age to start? And how do you get her excited about it when she’s not sure it’s for her? These are the questions so many sports parents ask themselves, and the answers might surprise you. Whether your daughter is just starting out or competing at high levels, mental training could be the key to unlocking her full potential – both on and off the field.

Have you ever watched your daughter doubt herself right before a big game? Or wondered if the words you say are helping or hurting her confidence? If you’ve been there – grappling with how to support her without overstepping – you’re not alone. Here, we get into practical ways to give your athlete the confidence boost she needs, exactly when she needs it most. Whether it’s a tough practice, pre-game jitters, or post-game reflections, the right words can make all the difference.

Do you ever find yourself standing on the sidelines before a game, wondering, “Am I even ready for this?”

If that’s you, don’t worry – you’re not alone. Almost every athlete has felt that wave of uncertainty before competing. But here’s the thing – not feeling ready doesn’t mean you can’t rise to the occasion. Today, let’s challenge that head-on. I’ll walk you through practical tips to help you shake off the doubt and step into competition with confidence and focus.

What if I told you the biggest thing holding your daughter back isn’t her skill level but the opportunities she’ll never get to see? It’s a gut-punch for any parent who dreams of watching their daughter succeed.