I first wrote about the Matheny Manifesto in May of 2021. Mike Matheny’s book came out in 2015. His messages continue to be relevant and timely. Enjoy one of my most-read blog posts while I take a personal timeout.

Another high school coach has lost his job. Perhaps for good reasons. Or perhaps because a group of parents are unhappy their children are not getting enough playing time, so they presented other reasons the school board should fire the coach. It’s hard to see your child unhappy on the bench, but how much playing time they get depends on several factors.

I often wonder how high school sports will operate 20 years from now. Will club sports continue to rise in importance, eroding high school teams? Or will we reinvent offerings so more kids can participate? Prioritizing club sports poses a risk to team, school, and community pride. Playing for two teams at the same time causes issues for both teams, and surely must cause some internal conflict for the kid. What could youth sports look like in the future?

Starting kids too early in sports can lead to many unintended — and undesirable — consequences

Despite knowing the slim odds of getting an athletic scholarship, many parents believe they’ll get a return on their investment

Why parents will have to be the ones to change the youth sports model

It may sound impossible to change our youth sports culture. But what will happen if we don’t?

Burnout, anxiety, and depression can happen to anyone, including collegiate athletes

Take a timeout to learn more about the illness 1 in 5 adults experience each year

Participation is high, but are most parents of young kids really on board with our youth sports culture?

While youth sports took on a life of their own in the United States, Norway established ground rules. It appears they’re winning—in every way.

Age-appropriate activities should be part of any organized youth sports playbook

50 Years in the Bleachers is now available for purchase from your favorite bookseller—in paperback and eBook!

Growing expectations of the job and competition from club sports makes finding high school coaches a challenge for athletic directors.

Be one of the first to see my book cover—and get a sneak peek of my story!

If shaking hands and saying “good game” to the opponent have lost their meaning, maybe it’s time to remember that the best competitions and the best rivalries start with respect.

When kids quit youth sports before they get to high school, they miss out on some of the lessons that can serve them well as adults.

The pandemic prompted some sports officials to retire, but increasingly poor treatment from fans and coaches has been driving them off the court, field, and mat for years.

There is much to be gained from playing sports, regardless of the scoreboard or season’s record—if your child plays for a transformational coach.

Some parents successfully coach their children, but it can be complicated and challenging for both the child and parent.