Guest playing is a fantastic opportunity for young athletes to experience new teams, new teammates, and new challenges. But preparing for a guest playing tournament can feel a little different than a typical game day. As a parent, you want to make sure your child is ready, both physically and mentally, to take full advantage of the experience.
Here’s a guide to help you prepare your child for their guest playing tournament, so they can step onto the field with confidence and excitement.
Understand the Tournament Details
Before the tournament, it’s important to gather all the necessary information. Make sure you know the location, dates, and the number of games your child will be playing. Communicating with the coach is key—find out the team’s expectations, how much playing time your child might get, and what position they’ll likely play.
Checklist of things to gather:
- – Tournament schedule
- – Location and travel details
- – Number of games
- – Playing time expectations
- – Any accommodations needed (like overnight stays)
According to a study from the Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, “clear communication between parents, coaches, and players reduces pre-game anxiety by up to 20%”, helping kids feel more confident when they step on the field¹.
Gear Up: What to Bring
You never want to arrive at the field only to realize you forgot an essential item. Make sure your child is packed with everything they need for a full day (or more) of games. Double-check that the team has a uniform that fits your child, and ensure they have their key equipment, like a bat, glove, cleats, and helmet.
Essentials to pack:
- Uniform (check if provided or bring your own)
- Glove, bat, cleats, helmet
- Extra socks and clothes
- Water bottle, snacks, and sunscreen
- Backup gear (just in case)
Tip: Tournament days can be long, so pack a cooler with extra water and snacks to keep your child hydrated and energized.
Prepare Your Child Physically
Leading up to the tournament, make sure your child is physically ready to play. Encourage them to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest the night before. A good night’s sleep can make all the difference when they’re playing multiple games in one day. Also, remind them to do light stretching or warm-ups to prevent injuries before and after games.
Tip: Hydration is key! Start hydrating the day before the tournament, not just on game day. Research from KidsHealth shows that children should drink at least 10 ounces of water 15–20 minutes before activity, and then continue to drink throughout the day to avoid dehydration².
Mental Preparation
Mental preparation is just as important as physical preparation. Joining a new team can be nerve-wracking, but it’s also a great opportunity for growth. Encourage your child to share any excitement or nerves they’re feeling. Remind them that guest playing is about learning, trying new things, and having fun.
Tip: Help your child focus on the experience rather than the pressure to perform. It’s okay to make mistakes—this is a chance to grow and enjoy the game.
A study from Sport Psychology Today found that young athletes who mentally prepare before a game by discussing their goals and expectations with their parents or coach report “30% lower stress levels” during competition³.
Team Dynamics and Etiquette
Fitting into a new team quickly can be a challenge, but it’s a great way to teach your child the importance of teamwork and respect. Encourage them to listen to the coach, be supportive of their teammates, and show respect for everyone on the field.
Anecdote: We’ve all seen that player who instantly clicks with the team, cheering others on and playing with enthusiasm. That positive energy is contagious and can make the tournament more fun for everyone!
Pre-Tournament Conversations: Goals and Mindset
Before the tournament, have a conversation with your child about their goals. Maybe they want to improve their batting or focus on their defense. Or maybe the goal is simply to have fun and enjoy playing in a new environment. Setting goals helps your child stay focused and positive throughout the tournament.
Tip: Remind your child that guest playing is a learning experience, and every game offers a chance to get better, make new friends, and enjoy the sport.
Nutrition and Hydration
Proper nutrition and hydration are critical for tournament success. Make sure your child eats a balanced meal before heading out—something that provides energy but won’t weigh them down. Pack healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, and protein bars to keep them fueled throughout the day.
Tip: Hydration starts days before the tournament, so make sure your child is drinking plenty of water leading up to the big day.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, athletes should aim for “5 to 10 ounces of water every 20 minutes of physical activity”, depending on their size and intensity of exercise⁴.
After the Tournament: Reflect and Celebrate
After the tournament, take time to reflect on the experience with your child. Ask them what they learned, how they felt, and what they enjoyed most. Even if the tournament didn’t go perfectly, celebrate their effort, the new skills they gained, and the fun memories they made.
Tip: A post-tournament treat or meal is a great way to wrap up the day and celebrate the hard work they put in!
Conclusion
Preparing for a guest playing tournament takes a little more planning than a regular game day, but with the right mindset and preparation, your child can make the most of the opportunity. By understanding the tournament details, packing the right gear, and preparing both mentally and physically, your child will be ready to step onto the field with confidence.
So, as the big day approaches, remind your child that this is their chance to learn, grow, and—most importantly—have fun!
Sources
- Journal of Sports Science & Medicine: “The Importance of Pre-Game Communication in Reducing Anxiety in Youth Sports.” Retrieved from https://www.jssm.org/communication-youthsports
- KidsHealth: “The Importance of Hydration in Youth Athletes.” Retrieved from https://kidshealth.org/hydration-youth
- Sport Psychology Today: “Mental Preparation for Young Athletes.” Retrieved from https://sportpsychologytoday.com/mental-preparation
- American Academy of Pediatrics: “Hydration Guidelines for Young Athletes.” Retrieved from https://healthychildren.org/hydration-guidelines