Spring is almost here and another Oregon State Cup is just around the corner. State Cup is a time of excitement and stress. Player’s look forward to the challenge of performing at their best and help their team be as successful as possible. This is an opportunity to be crowned the best in the State at an age group. Parents tend to stress as they have no control of the event or outcome and want the best for their son or daughter.

 Once again, this is a time to facilitate personal growth and use this opportunity to parent. Parents don’t stress, enjoy this opportunity to observe your child and their friends grow and learn about who they are in a competitive environment. There will be challenges you can help your son or daughter deal with and teach them how to handle them in a manner that fosters growth and development.

Coaches can stress at this time as well, so be aware all are at a heightened state of emotion. Coaches stress for the same reason as the parents as they have invested time, energy, experience and passion into the team and individuals. When dealing with conflicted issues remember the 24hour rule, and don’t approach the coach immediately after a game. Call the coach and set up a time to meet in person after everyone has had a chance to get the immediate emotional impact out of their system.

Remember we decide if we are happy or sad, we decide to react positively or negatively and the decisions we make in an instant can have a life long impact. I can tell you I have made the decision to enjoy this Spring and my child and I am deciding to react in the most positive fashion to the world around me. Looking forward to Spring and State Cup.