Ever catch yourself reacting to your child's game and wonder what message you're really sending?
"So the question isn't if you're a role model, it's what kind of role model are you? Are you an example or are you, unknowingly, a cautionary tale?"
This powerful episode dives deep into the profound impact parents have on young athletes through their everyday actions—not just their words. Coach Karl Parker explores the "silent curriculum" running beneath all our interactions with our children, revealing how our reactions to both their successes and failures shape their athletic experience and personal development.
Drawing from research by USA Football and child psychology experts, Coach Parker unpacks the dangerous "identity trap" that many sports parents fall into—when our own self-worth becomes tied to our child's athletic performance. He shares personal stories, including an emotional sideline meltdown that became a powerful lesson in vulnerability and growth for both himself and his players.
The episode offers a practical playbook for becoming the positive example our young athletes deserve: how to model resilience in the face of challenges, prioritize fun and process over winning, balance support with autonomy, and demonstrate exemplary sportsmanship from the stands. Through honest self-reflection and intentional action, parents can transform from potential cautionary tales into powerful positive influences.
Whether you're coaching from the sidelines or cheering from the stands, this episode will change how you show up for your young athlete. Because when it comes to developing confident, resilient people (not just players), your example matters more than any drill, technique, or playbook. Share your own parental sports journey with us using #DrivewayDads and subscribe so you never miss what's coming next!

...and much more.
BONUS: The FREE Game Day Guide is LIVE https://wecoachparents.com/gameready
Hear more from Coach Parker on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@itscoachparker
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/itscoachparker/
Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@itscoachparker
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