Unlocking Joy in Sports: Trading Pressure for Play

Inspired by our book Coaching Better Athletes

Part 2 of a 3 part Blog Series

Introduction

Sports can feel like a pressure cooker for young athletes, with intense expectations and perfectionist drills draining the fun. Intensity and a strong focus is necessary from time to time but when you can swap pressure for play, the right kind of culture will blossom within your program. By making practice engaging and progress-focused, you create a space where kids compete with confidence and love every moment. Let’s dive into how to bring the fun back.

"...70% of athletes drop out by age 13 because “it’s not fun anymore.” "

Why Play Matters

When sports stop being enjoyable, kids don’t just play poorly—they quit. Research tells us that over 70% of athletes drop out by age 13 because “it’s not fun anymore.” In contrast, the American Psychological Association found that kids who enjoy their sport are three times more likely to stick with it. By fostering a playful environment, you not only boost performance but also keep your athletes committed and resilient through challenges.

Turning Drills into Games

One of the most simple things a coach can do to bring in the fun, gamify drills. This will  transform routine reps into an exciting challenge. For instance, a volleyball coach may challenge players to hit specific targets while serving instead of just serving for several minutes straight. This shift makes practice fun and keeps athletes focused. We tested this with our volleyball team, turning passing drills into a “keep-it-up” contest. The result? Laughter, sharper skills, and a practice everyone wanted to repeat.

Practical Tips for Coaches

• Mix in Some Fun Scrimmages: Try a wrong-hand game or randomized play to mix things up. These lighthearted moments build skills while keeping the mood relaxed.

• Cheer Effort, Not Just Results: Celebrate a hustle play as enthusiastically as a highlight. This shows kids that progress is what counts.

• Set the Vibe: Your energy shapes the team’s mood. Stay loose and encouraging, and they’ll play with more confidence. If you’re tense, they’ll feel the weight.

• Let Them Laugh: Encourage silliness, like a funny warm-up dance. Laughter signals they’re comfortable and having fun.

The Power of Progress

Play doesn’t mean abandoning goals—it means prioritizing growth over perfection. Tracking small wins like technically sound movements or smart plays, will provide you with evidence that your athletes are improving. In the past we utilized a team notebook to log moments like these and the kids loved it. A University of Washington study tells us that practices like this are extremely beneficial. Athletes focused on mastery have less anxiety and stay motivated longer, which translates to more joy and better performances.

"Athletes focused on mastery have less anxiety and stay motivated longer..."

Wrap-Up

Pressure stifles joy, but play sets it free. By gamifying drills, celebrating effort, and keeping the vibe light, you build a team that loves the game. Try one playful tweak at your next practice—maybe a fun scrimmage—and see the difference. In Part 3, we’ll cover how to create a team culture that feels like family, locking in joy for the long term.