As a parent, your love and dedication to your child’s success is undeniable. However, in the world of competitive tennis, the fine line between supporting and overstepping can significantly impact your child’s journey. This message comes from a place of respect and experience: you’ve entrusted your child’s growth to professionals, and now it’s time to let them do what they do best.

Here’s the truth: pushing your child too hard, micromanaging their performance, or critiquing every mistake does more harm than good. It creates pressure that can stifle their growth and enjoyment of the game. Tennis is as much mental as it is physical. If a child feels they’re playing to satisfy a parent’s expectations rather than their own love for the sport, it can lead to burnout, frustration, and lost potential.

It’s important to understand that tennis is a journey, not a race. Progress comes with time, effort, and the freedom to make mistakes. Your child needs space to grow, experiment, and learn without fear of criticism. When you step back, you allow them to embrace the game and build the confidence they need to navigate challenges both on and off the court.

We’ve seen it time and again: young athletes who thrive are the ones whose parents focus on emotional support rather than performance metrics. Cheering them on, being there to console them after losses, and helping them stay grounded during victories are the most valuable contributions you can make. Remember, success isn’t just about trophies or rankings—it’s about fostering a love for the sport that lasts a lifetime.

So, what can you do? Be a source of encouragement. Celebrate their efforts, not just their victories. Resist the urge to offer unsolicited advice after every match. Instead, ask how they feel about their performance and what they learned. This approach helps them develop self-awareness and accountability, crucial traits for long-term success in any field.

Finally, model the behavior you want to see. Show patience, resilience, and a positive attitude, even in the face of setbacks. When your child sees you embracing these qualities, they’re more likely to adopt them as well.

Abandon the ego. Embrace the process. Watch your child thrive.

Written by Ivan Krcelic, Director