5 Ways Parents Can Support Their Student Athlete’s Journey
Every parent wants to see their child thrive—not just in sports, but in life. Athletics have the power to teach discipline, character, and confidence, yet the journey can also bring pressure and uncertainty.
At 707 HorsePower, we believe our role is bigger than teaching skills. We guide young people to grow as athletes and as human beings.
Here are five science-backed, compassionate ways you can support your student athlete’s journey.
1. Celebrate Growth Over Outcomes
Wins and losses come and go, but a growth mindset lasts a lifetime. Research shows that when athletes focus on effort and improvement, they become more resilient and confident.
Swap “Did you win?” with “What did you learn today?”
Praise effort and persistence, not just results.
👉 A small change in language can help athletes handle setbacks with confidence.
2. Value Recovery as Much as Training
Performance doesn’t come from endless hours of practice—it comes from the right balance of effort and recovery. Sports science confirms that sleep, rest, and nutrition are just as important as training.
Encourage 8–9 hours of sleep each night.
Support hydration and balanced meals.
Protect downtime so the body and mind can recharge.
👉 Many breakthroughs happen during recovery, not just during workouts.
3. Encourage Variety and Joy in Play
Athletes who play multiple sports or simply enjoy unstructured play develop creativity, adaptability, and reduce their risk of burnout.
Let your athlete try different sports and activities.
Encourage pick-up games and backyard play.
Remind them that sports should also be fun.
👉 Many elite athletes credit their creativity and toughness to multi-sport experiences.
4. Create Opportunities for Leadership
Sports aren’t just about performance—they’re about character. Leadership opportunities, even small ones, can strengthen confidence and motivation.
Invite them to set and track their own goals.
Encourage them to lead warm-ups or support teammates.
Acknowledge how they lift others, not just how they play.
👉 Leadership on the field often translates into confidence in school and friendships.
5. Be Their Safe Place, Not Their Coach
At home, your athlete doesn’t need a second coach—they need support. Studies show that parental encouragement without added pressure keeps athletes engaged longer and reduces performance anxiety.
After games, listen more than you critique.
Let them bring up performance if they want to.
Celebrate who they are, not just what they do.
👉 Sometimes the most powerful words are: “I love watching you play.”
The Bigger Picture
Your influence as a parent will outlast any season. Sports can shape who your child becomes, but the way you guide them will shape how they see themselves.
At 707 HorsePower, we’re committed to walking this journey with families. Together, we’re not just building athletes—we’re building leaders, teammates, and game changers for life.