How to Motivate Kid Athletes

Motivation can mean the difference between your kid playing on the high school team or making it all the way to a professional league. A child can be extremely talented, but may lack the motivation to push through to the next level. Both parents and coaches need to know what it takes to get the kid focused on the sport and ready to compete. Some kids, however, can be born competitive and are more than willing to push their physical limits to win the game.

Instructions

    • 1

      End every practice with a scrimmage at the end. For example, many kids love playing in competitive scrimmages. The thought of playing in a scrimmage after the hard work is done can motivate kids to work diligently through practice.

    • 2

      Place your kid in a league where he is challenged. Many kids are too skilled for the league they are in and the games can become boring and unfulfilling. Some talented children can play on teams where the other kids are older and still compete and even excel.

    • 3

      Build morale on the team. Take the kids out for team functions. Building a sense of community and letting a kid know her role on the team will encourage her to work hard so that she doesn't let the team down.

    • 4

      Talk to the kid as he practices. When he does something well, praise him. When he is underachieving, tell him that he can do better.

    • 5

      Reward the kid with a water break. If she is working hard and you think she deserves a break, allow her to refuel while keeping the players who aren't working as hard focused on the practice.

    • 6

      Give the kid who you think is working hard extra playing time during games. Even if he isn't the best player on the team, he should be given an extra chance to perform -- especially when your team is ahead by a wide margin or they're behind and won't catch up. This is a win-win situation because it gives the child a chance to get better while at the same time giving your top players a chance to recover for the next game.