From Sidelines to Self-Awareness: Our Story as Recovering Crazy Sports Parents

Written By Justin Ahrens
 
 

EP. 06

We’ve sat on a lot of sidelines. Cheered hard. Sometimes way too hard.

And over the years, we’ve had to confront a humbling truth: we were those sports parents, overinvested, overly intense, and sometimes missing the point.

In this episode, we get real about how our own athletic backgrounds shaped the way we showed up for our kids, sometimes in ways we’re proud of, and sometimes in ways we regret. From missed game-winning shots and sideline outbursts to the painful postgame car rides, we’re looking back with open hands and open hearts. This is a story of unlearning, apologizing, and doing better.

Whether you're in the thick of travel sports, wondering how much is too much, or just trying to raise decent humans without losing your mind at the refs, this one’s for you. Because cheering from the sidelines is a gift, but learning when to sit down and just be there? That’s growth.

Takeaways:

  • Let your kids set the pace of their sports journey.

  • When in doubt, cheer louder and critique less.

  • Don’t let your unfulfilled dreams hijack their experience.

  • Love them through the game—not because of it.

  • Reflect and repair when you get it wrong (because we all do).

Things We’re Learning (and Unlearning):

  • Kids don’t need us to be their coach. They need us to be their safe place.

  • Your child’s success isn’t a reflection of your worth.

  • Effort > outcome. Celebrate the character, not the stat line.

  • Pushing too hard often pushes them away.

  • The ride home after a game should be about connection, not correction.

  • Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do? Just show up, clap, and let them lead.

    Resources Mentioned & Recommended:

Listen to the full episode:

 
Justin Ahrens
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From South Africa to Here: Love Tested, Love Renewed