Life Is Filled With Disappointments…

 

It’s okay if your child didn’t make the top team. It doesn’t mean they are terrible; someone else was a better fit. It’s okay if your child doesn’t make a team at all. They can still be good volleyball players and great people, and they will have time to explore other activities that may turn into a new passion or practice and try again next year.

 

Coaching is very tough, and while there are a few bad apples in the bunch, the overwhelming majority of coaches are killing themselves to create the best teams they can while trying to respect the athletes’ feelings. They are putting in many hours thinking about the teams’ structure, the kids’ development, and their overall potential. Please don’t bash them. No coach likes making cuts. They know girls will be disappointed; it’s stressful for everyone. Instead, focus on teaching your child how to deal with disappointment in a healthy way.

 

These life skills will help them tremendously if they learn them early. I’m hiring someone on my team at work whose salary is six figures. I had over 100 applicants. I can only choose one. Most have similar qualifications and experience and are very good. I chose the one I thought would mesh well with my team; I am considering others for future opportunities and will recommend some to other teams. Just because they didn’t get the job doesn’t mean they are horrible. Our kids will be in this situation as adults. Some will be rejected from colleges in a few years. What we teach them now makes a difference. Telling them they were better than the other girls or boys who made it, the other girls aren’t good, or blaming the coach or club won’t help.

 

Sometimes, you don’t get what you want, even when you work hard.

 

It doesn’t mean life is over. It means you figure out your next goal and move on. Being disappointed is okay, but negative energy never helps a situation. Our kids are watching us. It’s been a stressful month with club and HS tryouts.

 

Breathe, everyone; it will be okay.