The “30-Meter Rule”
I’ve been involved in youth sports for probably over 30 years, and if there’s one thing I strongly believe in, it’s the “30-meter rule.” In fact, it’s one of the first things I tell families before I start working with a young athlete as a mental coach.
The 30-meter rule refers to the distance I recommend for parents to stay from the sidelines of the court during their child’s game. Is it a punishment? Absolutely not. It’s simply something that helps the child focus better and enjoy the sport they love.
By keeping this distance, the child feels less pressure but still knows they have your support. Every child loves knowing that their parents are there watching, but they don’t need to hear their comments or see their reactions during the game.
Remember, your child sees, hears, and perceives everything around them—yes, even that “almost” sigh.
When your child is looking at you during a match, their mind isn’t fully engaged in the game. They get distracted. But when a child feels free, they play “freely” and enjoy the experience of practicing the sport they love. It’s their time, not yours.
This rule also helps the child focus on what the coach wants from them.
Be the parent who supports the 30-meter rule. Let your child focus on the game, not on you!