It’s often reported that when young athletes are asked about their least favorite moment in sports—or even why they eventually quit—one of the most common answers is “the car ride home.”

After a long day on the golf course, everyone is tired. Emotions are high, and while it may feel like the perfect moment to break down your daughter’s round, it’s usually not. Let her decide if—and when—she wants to talk about it. She’s already replaying every shot in her mind, especially if she didn’t play well.

If you do say anything, keep it positive.
Let her know you enjoyed watching her compete, regardless of the outcome.

If you feel you need to ask questions, focus on effort and attitude—not score.
Ask whether she gave her best effort.
Ask if she felt she showed good sportsmanship.
If she says yes, then your response is simple: “I’m proud of you.”

There will absolutely be things to learn, skills to improve, and habits to adjust—but the car ride home is rarely the right time for that. Those conversations can happen later, in a calmer moment, and often should come from her coach or instructor rather than her parent.

And don’t worry—if you take the right approach, she will talk about it when she’s ready. Even when I was playing professionally, I called my mom or dad after every round at some point. Kids open up when they feel supported, not pressured.

 

Written by Brandi Jackson, RecruitPKB College Consultant. For more information contact via bjackson@pkbgt.org