Parenting in sport UK initiative

RESEARCH by Loughborough University into parenting in sport has resulted in the nationwide roll-out of a youth tennis parent education and support initiative.

Parenting a talented young tennis player can be complex and challenging, and the pressures faced by families can be difficult to manage.

To understand these pressures Professor Chris Harwood and Dr Sam Thrower from the University’s School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences conducted investigations into the experiences and needs of tennis parents in Great Britain.

Their published findings have led to the development of resources and workshops that aim to help grass roots tennis parents and children gain a positive and confidence building experience from their participation in the sport.

Working with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) and its competitions department, the duo have helped to develop the LTA Parent Support Programme. This includes a three-hour parent workshop on optimal competition parenting, a start competing parents guide and a series of short educational videos. The interactive parent workshop forms the cornerstone of the programme and offers insights and exercises into the challenges and benefits of tennis, as well how to help their children before, during and after matches.