As the world of youth football parenting continues to grow and evolve, it’s becoming increasingly clear that navigating the challenges of raising a young athlete can be just as daunting as the sport itself. For many parents, the dream of watching their child succeed on the field is a powerful motivator, but it’s equally important to remember that the journey to success is just as important as the destination.
One of the biggest challenges facing parents of young footballers is striking the right balance between supporting their child’s development and avoiding the pitfalls of over-involvement. As Nigel James, father of England internationals Reece and Lauren James, explains, “I stay completely off them, I leave it all down to them. I have done my job… If Reece or Lauren play or don’t play, that is down to them and their club, not me.”
James’ approach is echoed by many other parents who have navigated the world of youth football. Marcia Lewis, mother of 17-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly, who spent the summer on tour with Arsenal in the United States, agrees that finding the right balance is key. “He is not an Arsenal first-team player, he is an academy player, he has not ‘made it’… He has had some incredible experiences and is on a pathway but that doesn’t mean he is going to fulfil his dreams as a professional footballer long term.”
For many parents, the biggest challenge is distinguishing between their own dreams and aspirations, and those of their child. As Sonny Pike, a former youth football prodigy who was hailed as the “next Diego Maradona” at just 15, explains, “I had a father who was very intense, very focused on me achieving the best possible outcome… But for me, that just led to burnout.”
Navigating the Elite Academy System
One of the most daunting aspects of youth football parenting is navigating the elite academy system. For many parents, the promise of a place at a top-tier academy is the ultimate goal, but as Lewis explains, it’s just the beginning. “It’s not just about getting into a top academy; it’s about what happens next… There are so many talented kids in these academies, but not all of them will make it.”
James agrees that the academy system is just one part of the journey. “You have seen ones who have come through not just because of their talent, they were good, but the parents played a big part in it because they were nice to work with… If there are parents who think they understand it, think they can tell clubs what to do… People are wanting to be a footballer not because they are dreaming of playing in a World Cup or being on Match of the Day, they dream about it because of what football gives you – lifestyle, houses and cars, but that’s not football.”
For many parents, the key to success is education. As Lewis explains, “Education is the only guarantee you can set yourself from the start… No matter how good you are, you can’t set yourself by thinking you are going to be a footballer because it still boils down to someone else’s decision at the end of it.”
The Importance of Education in Youth Football Parenting
Balancing School and Football
As Lewis explains, balancing school and football is crucial for young athletes. “Myles has always been very keen on education, and we’ve always made sure that he knows the importance of balancing his schoolwork with his football career.”
For many parents, finding the right balance can be a challenge. As Pike explains, “It’s about finding the right balance between football and education… Kids need to be able to have a life outside of football, otherwise, they’ll just burn out.”
James agrees that education is key. “The main advice I give parents is to help their kids enjoy football but work even harder on their school education… That is the only guarantee you can set yourself from the start.”
Why Education Matters
For many parents, the focus on education can seem counterintuitive. After all, the promise of a football scholarship or a lucrative contract is a powerful motivator. But as Lewis explains, “The reality is that only a tiny percentage of kids who play football will go on to become professionals… Education is the key to securing a stable future.”
As Pike explains, “Football is a hobby for a very long time. It is not a job until you are getting paid to do it… Kids need to have something else to fall back on, otherwise, they’ll just get lost.”
The Impact of Parenting on Young Athletes
For many parents, the impact of their parenting style can have a profound effect on their child’s development as a young athlete. As Pike explains, “I used to get into trouble as a kid because I couldn’t handle the pressure from my father… It’s not about putting pressure on your kid; it’s about creating a positive environment that allows them to thrive.”
Positive Parenting in Youth Football
For many parents, creating a positive parenting environment is key to success. As Lewis explains, “It’s about being a supportive parent, being there to encourage your child and help them through the tough times… When Myles is down, I remind him of all the reasons he started playing football in the first place – for fun.”
James agrees that positive parenting is crucial. “I have seen lots of talented kids go through the academy system and end up with nothing… If there are parents who think they understand it, think they can tell clubs what to do… People are wanting to be a footballer not because they are dreaming of playing in a World Cup or being on Match of the Day, they dream about it because of what football gives you – lifestyle, houses and cars, but that’s not football.”
As the world of youth football continues to evolve, it’s clear that parenting plays a critical role in the development of young athletes. By striking the right balance between support and involvement, focusing on education, and creating a positive parenting environment, parents can help their children navigate the challenges of youth football and achieve their dreams.