In this episode of the Suburban Burnout Podcast, Megan and Laura have a thought-provoking conversation Trennis Jones, Vice President of Community Impact at Austin FC, exploring the evolving landscape of youth sports and the vital role parents play in supporting their children's athletic endeavors.
Trennis shares his personal journey, rooted in a deep familial love for sports, which shaped his perspective on parental guidance. He tells us how his parents guided him in his athletic pursuits, allowing him to forge his own path while supporting him mentally by adapting to what he needed as an athlete, not necessarily want they as parents wanted for him. Reflecting on his own experiences as both an athlete and a parent, he underscores the necessity for sports involvement to be player-driven rather than parent-imposed, posing the critical question, "Is this for you or for them?" This isn't to say a parent shouldn't push their child or discuss their sport with them. Drawing from his experience as a former collegiate basketball player, Trennis emphasizes the importance for parents to discern the opportune moments for sharing information with their young athletes. Rather than succumbing to parental ego and imparting guidance at the parent's convenience, he underscores the significance of aligning communication with the athlete's readiness and receptiveness. This approach ensures that advice is received constructively, fostering a supportive environment conducive to the athlete's growth and development.
Drawing parallels between past and present, Trennis acknowledges the significant changes in contemporary sports, characterized by corporatization and pressure. He highlights the risk of burnout when sports transition from a source of joy to a demanding obligation. There is a certain amount of joy in the spontaneity of picking up a ball for the fun of it. The risk of burnout is exacerbated by the influence of social media's skewed portrayal of success. Highlight reels do not show the mistakes, missed calls, or the blood, sweat, and tears it took a pro athlete to get to where they are today.
Offering practical advice for parents, Trennis advocates for:
Valuing effort over outcomes because effort doesn't always translate into success.
Coaching children to prioritize the team by giving 100%. If 15% of an athlete's energy is wasted on a bad attitude, that is 15% less energy they are devoting to the game or team.
Nurturing a strong work ethic devoid of outcome-based self-worth. Self-worth should come from the work itself. Coaches look for coachable kids with hustle.
Leading your athlete by example. Oftentimes, parents fall short when something happens to their kids they don't like or agree with. It is easy to do the right thing when your kids is MVP. Parents should strive to be leaders during the tough times. So be honest with yourself and ask, "Do I run a bit hot?" If so, set an intention before the game that you are there to support your child, not be entertained by them.
Addressing athletes directly, Trennis encourages them to:
Maintain perspective by not taking themselves too seriously. Don't let the ghosts of past mistakes cloud future success.
Find joy in the game.
Embrace the teachings of the African Proverb of Ubuntu which says, "I am a person through other people. My humanity is tied to yours." This highlights the interconnectedness of success in that your success is tied to the success of your teammates.
In his role at Austin FC, Trennis leverages the platform to drive positive change within the community, focusing on equity, sustainability, and celebrating the unique essence of Austin. Through initiatives like the 4ATX Foundation, soccer is utilized as a catalyst for holistic community development, fostering social, emotional, and physical well-being.
For those interested in contributing to these impactful endeavors, more information is available on the 4ATX Foundation website, offering opportunities to support and engage with initiatives aimed at uplifting communities through the power of sports.
In conclusion, Megan and Laura's conversation with Trennis Jones sheds light on the intricate dynamics of youth sports and the pivotal role of parental support. Through Trennis' insights, we are reminded of the importance of nuturing a healthy relationship with sports, one rooted in joy, effort, and teamwork. For more of this intriguing conversation, tune into this episode of Suburban Burnout.
Meet Our Guest:
Trennis serves as Vice President - Community Impact for Austin FC, the first major sports team in Austin, TX. He is passionate about using the power of sport to empower people who enrich our community.
Previous to Austin FC, Trennis has worked in the sports industry for almost two decades: leading non-profit Positive Coaching Alliance in the state of Texas, serving as a Player Agent at Octagon, and in Basketball Operations for the Phoenix Suns.
Born and raised in Austin, TX, Trennis is a graduate of The University of Colorado at Boulder with a BA in Communication. While in Boulder, Trennis was a scholarship athlete for the Men’s Basketball Team from 2000-2004.
In his free time, Trennis enjoys playing golf, reading, and walking Jack, the family dog. He is most proud to be husband to his wife, Amy, and dad to their daughter, Landyn.
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