Healthy Sports Parents: Why Most Kids Quit Before They’re Ready

In Part 1 of this conversation, Ian sits down with Jonathan Corone, creator of Healthy Sports Parents, to unpack the emotional, cultural, and behavioral challenges parents face in youth sports.

Jonathan shares how his own daughter’s experience — and a moment on the sidelines watching a parent lose control — sparked a platform focused on helping parents do better without shame or blame. Together, they explore why parents react the way they do, how outcome obsession sneaks in early, and why most kids don’t need more pressure — they need perspective.

This episode is for parents, coaches, and anyone trying to protect joy, growth, and long-term development in youth sports.

🧠 Key Talking Points

Why most parents don’t intend to become “that parent” on the sidelines

How outcome obsession sneaks into youth sports early

The emotional fatigue parents carry into games

Why growth matters more than wins at young ages

The difference between reacting and responding as a parent

How kids mirror adult behavior on the field

Why intrinsic motivation matters more than talent

The dangers of projecting adult goals onto children

How environment and resources shape development

What kids actually remember long after the games end

💬 Quotes from Jonathan Corone

“Most parents want to do better — they just haven’t been taught how.”

“Youth sports are not about winning. They’re about teaching kids tools for life.”

“If you’re having to motivate your kid, they’re probably not going to make it.”

“Methods change. Principles don’t.”

“Kids don’t fall out of love with sports overnight — they drift.”

“Growth is what matters, not the scoreboard.”

“Parents are reacting from exhaustion, not intention.”

“You can’t make your kid want it — they have to want it themselves.”

🔗 Connect with Jonathan Corone

🌐 Website: healthysportsparents.com

🎙️ Podcast: open.spotify.com/show/1dpgJQoownxZfnliaiqIJv

📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/healthysportsparents/

👍 Facebook: www.facebook.com/HealthySportsParents/

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Mentioned in this episode:

Reeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.

Reeplayer

Soccer Innovations: Award-Winning Soccer Equipment & Accessories

Soccer Innovations

TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
soccer team

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