Beyond the Buzzer: The Parent's Guide to Post-Game Success

Hello everyone,

It’s Ernesto again, and with my middle son's AAU shootout this weekend, I'll be out there with my camera, just like so many of you. But I've learned over the years that what happens after the final buzzer is just as important as what happens on the court.

As a sports parent, it’s natural for our first question to be, "Did you win?" or "How many points did you score?" We want to celebrate their successes and show that we're invested. But sometimes, those questions put pressure on our kids and make them feel like their value is tied to the scoreboard.

I've been trying to shift my approach to focus on growth and mindset. Instead of asking about the final score, I try to ask questions that encourage reflection and learning.

Here are some of my favorite questions to ask my kids after a game:

• "What was the most fun part of the game today?" This helps them reconnect with the joy of playing, regardless of the outcome.

• "What's one thing you feel you did well, and one thing you want to work on?" This helps them develop self-awareness and a growth mindset.

• "Is there anything you saw on the court that you'd like to try next time?" This opens up a conversation about strategy and learning from others.

This is where video becomes a powerful tool, and it's the core of our vision for EliteTime (sorry shameless plug 😂).

Using highlights to review a game isn't just about celebrating a great shot; it's about giving them a chance to see their own success (and failures) and learn from it. It turns a quick moment into a valuable teaching opportunity.

By taking the time to talk, reflect, and celebrate their effort—not just the outcome—we can help our young athletes develop confidence and a lifelong love for the game.

I'm excited to put this into practice again this weekend. Is anyone else's team playing? Let me know in the comments!

ee

✌🏽