Shoot us a text, just like your kid shoots for the goal!" ⚽🏆

"I don't want to play anymore." These six words can send any sports parent into a tailspin of emotions—disappointment, frustration, and even panic. But before you react, take a deep breath.

In this heartfelt episode, Katie and Cari tackle one of the most challenging conversations parents face: when your young athlete wants to quit their sport. Drawing from personal experiences and countless conversations with other parents, they reveal that kids rarely wake up one day suddenly hating their sport—there's almost always something deeper happening beneath the surface.

The hosts walk through exactly how to handle this delicate situation, starting with the crucial first step: just listen. Without judgment or interruption, create space for your child to express what's really going on. Is it conflict with teammates? Issues with a coach? Overheard conversations about financial strain? Or simply changing interests? Understanding the root cause is essential before making any decisions.

Katie and Cari emphasize that quitting shouldn't be the automatic response to challenges. Learning to work through difficulties—whether it's not getting enough playing time or dealing with difficult teammates—builds crucial life skills that extend far beyond sports. They share thoughtful strategies for addressing various issues while supporting your child's emotional needs.

Whether your athlete ultimately stays in their sport or moves on to something new, this episode provides the guidance you need to navigate the conversation with wisdom and compassion. After all, as Cari reminds us, "You're their parent, you're their safe space"—and how you handle this moment can shape not just their athletic journey, but how they approach challenges throughout their life.

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