Parents and the Youth Sports Experience – dealing with tryouts, social media, overscheduling - with Eric Macramalla

05/06/2025 43 min

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Episode Synopsis

In this episode of Rinkside, Ryan Steeves and guest co-host Eric Macramalla cover youth sports, focusing on tryouts, player development, and the emotional challenges faced by young athletes. They discuss the importance of proper placement in sports, the impact of social media on youth sports culture, and the need for transparency in coaching decisions. The conversation emphasizes the significance of fostering a positive relationship between children and their sports, ensuring that the focus remains on enjoyment and growth rather than solely on competition.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Co-Host Dynamics01:57 The Art of Unprepared Conversations03:25 Navigating Tryouts: Insights and Experiences07:12 Sorting Out Players: The Right Level Matters11:25 Building Relationships Through Sports15:01 The Role of Parents in Youth Sports18:38 Evaluating Talent: The Tryout Dilemma22:41 Inclusivity in Sports: Casting a Wider Net23:48 The Dynamics of Team Changes in Youth Sports25:51 The Impact of Parental Expectations on Youth Athletes28:50 Understanding the Role of Fun in Youth Sports31:07 The Cost of Youth Sports: A Parent's Perspective34:05 The Dangers of Overemphasis on Competition35:45 The Influence of Social Media on Youth Sports39:28 Consumption vs. Learning in Youth Sports