A thin line between ‘toughening’ up a child and brutally breaking their spirits.

Imagine a coach, manager and/or the assistant constantly being on a child’s case.

Imagine fellow teammates ridiculing, criticizing, teasing and constantly bullying a child.

Imagine the parents barking instructions on the sidelines.

Imagine other parents passing snide remarks: “how did this child get selected?”

Participation in sport has great potential to unearth and refine beyond the natural ability, natural flair, natural skill and talent. This is where we see the honing of crucial life skills and the makings of an all-rounder: after all, it takes more than talent and superstar qualities to be successful. I am referring to the hunger, dedication, determination, hard-work, self-discipline, effort, spirit, attitude, perseverance, persistence, willingness to learn, an ear to always listen and take instructions, and the skill to take the advice and guidance from those who have walked the path.

My Humble Opinion: I have seen well-intentioned coaches, managers, assistants, players and parents tear a child apart.To a point where that child gives up on their passions, dreams and aspirations.There is a thin line between ‘toughening’ up a child and brutally breaking their spirits and thwarting their emotional development, something they need in order to grow into well-adjusted adulthood. Consider a child’s age, level of maturity and emotional intelligence before you impart your version of ‘constructive criticism’. Children should be allowed to make mistakes without fear of judgement or reprisal. Children should be given the space to explore and discover. Our role as adults is to nurture, guide, protect and support. Ours is to boost morale and bring about morally sound and confident children.

“Don’t break a birds wings and tell it to fly. Don’t break a soul and tell it to be happy”