Parents Who Get It

I am a fourth generation high school cheerleader. Although I had fun most of the time, my dream was to be a high school wrestler. I was prohibited from even attempting this dream since my mom wouldn't sign the parent consent form for tryouts. Long story short, I got out of cheerleading when I left high school and went back to my first love, track and field. This scenario is all to familiar in youth sports, and the parental pressure can continue all the way in to the professional leagues, where parental support can also be found. One of the greatest golfers of all time, Tiger Woods and the relationship with his father Earl is a prime example of parental support. The late Earl Woods has been supporting Tiger's golfing career all the back when Tiger was very young. At just two years old, Earl brought him on the Mike Douglas Show to show off his swing. Tiger has always spoke highly of hid dad and the endless support and encouragement he received.

There are definitely other examples of professional athletes receiving parental support throughout their lives, and sometimes it can go too far and can put too much pressure on them as kids, just like my mom did to me. As youth sports are becoming more and more competitive, and arguably dangerous, some parents are reluctant to allow their kids to play sports at all. Recently, NFL quarterback Tom Brady's father has spoken out against allowing young boys to play football due to the risk on concussion and other injury. If he knew about possible long term ramifications of playing football back when Tom started playing football at age 14, he "Would be very hesitant to let him play."

These two child-parent relationships in regards to sports are great examples of how parents can support, encourage, and look out for the best interest of their kids. As people continue to idolize professional athletes, perhaps they will begin to idolize supportive sports relationships as well.