Has anyone used a Sports Psychologist for their child?

[CurlyTop1980]

Just curious really? If it's worth it? One of my DCs is very good at a sport, so good they got a scholarship to a very good school because of it. Anyway, the past few weeks they have had to trial for a new team outside of school- they absolutely fly in the initial stages of the trials, but when they go to the final trials, it's like they mentally 'switch off'. They really struggle with being 'loud'. And socialising with the team mates. All DC's coaches have given the exact same feedback- ever since they started the sport aged 4. Exceptional technical skills, creative player but they need to be more vocal and show better enthusiasm.

Me and DC dad are at a loss as neither of us are in the slightest bit sporty and never expected to be in this position with one of our kids. Child is now U14. Am thinking maybe its a mental block?

I really appreciate any help you can provide.

Sounds like potential for more pressure on him

just make clear that if he does well, wonderful. If he doesn’t, don’t worry there will be other opportunities and it’s not the end of the world. Oh and you’re as proud as punch of hi.

Thanks. I may look into this further.

Second this.

Sort of off topic but I took my nephew to junior park run a few weeks ago. I noticed several parents pushing their children on through obvious fatigue when they clearly wanted to walk for a bit. The way to keep children in sport is to make them enjoy it.

Be very careful I have seen a lot of damage caused to children by parents throwing extra training, sports psychologists, nutritionists etc at their talented children. To you it seems like helping to them it seems like pressure.

Thanks, my child has actually asked me last night to see if they can go to one, as I think they suddenly get 'imposter syndrome' when trying to compete at a higher level- even though they are more than capable. I totally get this as I work very high up in my field and I honestly get Imposter Syndrome all the time.

Her school did a talk with a sports psychologist recently and she found it really interesting. TBH we have not even mentioned it to my child and I think the talk made her realise she may need more support. The speaker suffered an awful accident and they didn't let it affect their sport and were really motivated to get healed and compete again and they are now trained as a Sports Psychologist.

Does your child want to compete and join new teams etc? Being good at something and enjoying it doesn't necessarily lead into wanting to perform and climb higher...

It sounds like far too much pressure for a child of that age.