More Than Athletes

What is empathy? Why is it important in the lives of athletes, coaches and parents?As an adult, have you ever:-critiqued kid's playing/running/jumping/passing?-spoke at the athlete(s) without first asking them a question?-offered advice without being asked for it?-gave your perspective of the game before asking or hearing theirs?Be honest!How we talk with kids is a MAJOR issue in youth athletics and why MOST KIDS QUIT! 200,000 youth soccer players were surveyed as to why they didn't join the current season and their #1 answer was it was 'no fun'! #2: coach, #3: parent. Apprently the adults in their lives aren't making the experience enjoyable any longer.How can we support athletes without pushing them past the breaking point? Why is this pressure necessary?What else can we say that helps them learn but isn't harsh criticism?How can we as adults come from a place of empathy? What is empathy? How do we use this powerful tool? Listen in!