Episode 205

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Published on:

29th Oct 2025

#208 – The #1 Mistake Sports Parents Make (And What to Do Instead

#208 – The #1 Mistake Sports Parents Make (And What to Do Instead)

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Episode Summary:


Every parent wants their child to succeed in sport: to perform well, improve, and love the game. But as Ian explains in this heartfelt episode, there’s one behaviour that quietly holds so many young athletes back: constant correction and criticism. Drawing on his experience as a coach, parent, and performance mentor, Ian unpacks why focusing on mistakes destroys confidence and connection, and how encouragement and belief drive long-term success.


Through real-life stories from community football and examples from elite sport, Ian shows why even top athletes like Reece Walsh still make mistakes, and why that’s part of the journey. He reveals what parents can do instead: spot bright moments, praise effort and controllables, and give validation, recognition, and certainty that fuels trust and motivation.


Whether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode reframes what real high performance looks like. Because lasting confidence doesn’t come from fear or pressure; it grows from encouragement, connection, and love.


About the Host:


Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.


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About the Podcast

Sport Is Life
It's More Than Just A Game
The Sport Is Life podcast explores how sport can positively change your life. Join us as we delve into the powerful life lessons that sport teaches you, lessons that can be applied to every aspect of your life. Host Ian Hawkins shares wisdom and insights gained from a lifetime of experience as an athlete, husband, father, PE teacher, community volunteer, manager at Fox Sports and a performance coach to elite athletes, business owners, corporate leaders, and other coaches. Tune in to hear how sports can provide the tools you need to excel in your personal and professional life. From practical advice to heartfelt stories, the "Sport Is Life Podcast" is your guide to unlocking the potential within you through the power of sport.

Sport is more than just a game; Sport Is Life.

About your host

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Ian Hawkins

Ian Hawkins, host of "Sport Is Life," is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.