Icing Arms

Paul:

I have read many of your posts here, and have a lot of respect for you. I would caution you about one thing. I think 100 games a year is WAY too much for a 12 year old - regardless of talent, and regardless of how much he loves the game (right now). I have coached kids for 30 years - baseball mostly, but alway football and basket ball. It has been my experience that kids BURN OUT! My own son was considered a premier player (football - defensive end) in the state. He had several college offers to play. But he started at age 7, played to age 18, and simply told me (and I believed him) that he was tired of it. His team played in the Astrodome (Texas 5A football is serious business) several times. But he just didn't want to do it for another 4-5 years. In retrospect, though I didn't push him, I believed him. Fortunately, he also had an academic scholarship. But my point here is that I am concerned that if a 12 year old plays 100 games - or even 65 - that by the time they are in HS and college, they will be sick of the sport.

I intentially end ALL practices with the players wanting a "little more." That makes them eager for the next practice. Please be careful with your boy. I am sure that he is immensely talented. But let him be a boy, too - for in the long run - you'll find that is equally important.

Grandpa Bob