After the last game of the season. Here's what to say.
The season is over. Win or lose, the kid is processing more than the score. The script for the drive that closes a chapter.
What they're feeling
- · All of it at once.
- · Sad it's over, even if they wanted it to end.
- · Relieved, even if they loved it.
- · Wondering what next year looks like.
What to say (pick one)
- "I loved watching you play this year."
- "Thanks for letting me come watch."
- "What was your favorite thing about this team?"
Then stop talking.
What not to say
- "Now we need to talk about next year."
- "I think you should try out for the higher team."
- "There's always next year. (Sometimes there isn't.)"
The rule
Tonight is for the season that just ended. Next year is for next month.
If they bring it up
- · If they bring up next year, listen, don't decide.
- · If they cry, let them cry. The end of seasons hits hard.
- · If they say I'm glad it's over, believe them.
Save this
After the last game
- · One sentence about the kid, not the season.
- · Tonight is for tonight. Next year is for next month.
- · If they cry, let them. Endings hit harder than wins do.
parentcoachplaybook.com/scripts
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