Athletic Directors (ADs) and Executive Directors (EDs) of youth sports organizations are not just administrators—they are the standard bearers and core role models for shaping the culture of their organizations. Every action they take, every decision they make, and every interaction they have is closely observed by hundreds of people, including athletes, parents, coaches, staff, and fans. In this role, it is imperative that EDs consistently "walk their talk," because failing to do so unintentionally sends a powerful message: that the organization’s culture is optional and can be discarded at will.

Discover how to support the socio-emotional development of young athletes while fostering their motivation, resilience, and work ethic. In this blog, Dr. Michael McElhenie shares expert strategies for parents to nurture their child’s mental and emotional well-being, helping them balance the pressures of sports with personal growth. Learn how to ask empowering questions, celebrate effort over results, and guide your young athlete to embrace challenges with a growth mindset. With practical tips on balancing encouragement with rest, advocating without overstepping, and introducing mental training techniques, this guide equips parents to inspire their child’s athletic and personal success.