Welcome to Rethink the Win, a resource for athletes, parents and coaches to rethink the world of youth sports and elite athletics.
Since becoming a sports broadcasting analyst and journalist, I’ve interviewed hundreds of parents and athletes, and I’m struck by their frustration. They tell me about toxic environments, extreme pressure on coaches to win at all cost and kids no longer enjoying the game.
Through Rethink the Win, I want to start conversations in living rooms, locker rooms and school board rooms about issues we’re facing in youth sports. Through articles and videos on this website, along with my presentations and consulting work around the country, I want to provoke thought and inspire solutions leading to more positive experiences during this short time in the sporting lives of our kids.
I’ve interviewed hundreds of parents and athletes, and I’m struck by their frustration. They tell me about toxic environments, extreme pressure on coaches to win at all cost and kids no longer enjoying the game.
You’ll find two channels of information on Rethink the Win—one for young athletes, the other for parents, coaches, youth sports officials and other adults in positions to affect change.
Athletes
For the athletes the site will be a gateway to articles and conversations and a chance to hear from other athletes about their struggles and success in sport. There are many elements of the athlete’s life that are unique to athletes and I want to provide support, guidance and examples of what a great sporting experience can do for you.
Parents
For the parents, coaches and anyone who supports athletes this site will provide you with resources and evidence that winning at all cost is a disingenuous and empty way to guide our kids through sports. We all have to take a piece of the responsibility on how we can help keep our athletes in sport, provide them with a better experience and support them as they move through the game they love.
Let’s rethink the win and create a better experience for our kids!