In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle as an elite athlete, balancing the demands of their sport and the demands of other life commitments must be considered and maintained.
Starting and maintaining the life of a performance or pathway athlete can be exciting and daunting as it takes time to adjust and balance training and all the other things in one's life.
A young athlete on the talent pathway will undoubtedly experience change and challenges, which may make them feel under pressure at times – the pressure to succeed, to be selected and to meet their own expectations as well as the expectations of those around them.
Throughout the career of an elite young athlete, parents who are positively involved play a key role in their health and wellbeing as well as their overall success.
There are several things that sports organisations can do to contribute towards the ongoing mental wellbeing of their participants, as well as supporting those experiencing mental health problems.
Lower-level concerns
It is important that all concerns are reported through an organisation’s procedures, including serious concerns and worries considered lower on the spectrum of behaviour.
The role of parents in youth sport
The role that parents and carers play in their child’s sporting life is vital in helping them to thrive and to achieve their full sporting potential, whilst feeling safe and supported.
Safeguarding standards provide a benchmark to help those involved in sport to make informed decisions, promote good practice, raise lower-level concerns and help to create a safe sporting environment for everyone.