What Should Young Athletes Take Away From Their Stats?

Most kids don’t start playing sports for the numbers. They start because it’s fun. Because they want to move, be part of something, or try something new. But stats creep in somewhere along the way, often earlier than we expect.

Batting averages. Scoring charts. Shot percentages. Win/loss records.

And for many young athletes, those numbers start to feel like the scoreboard for their self-worth.

The Stats Start Earlier Than You Think

By middle school, many athletes are already comparing their numbers. They hear parents talk about stats in the stands. They see rankings on websites. They pick up on which players get praised—and why.

Even if no one’s explicitly saying “this number defines you,” kids are excellent at reading between the lines. They start to associate their performance with how much value they bring to the team, or how proud their adults seem after the game.

I’ve seen with some athletes that even without critical feedback, the focus on numbers alone can send a strong message. When stats are the main thing people talk about, it can start to feel like that’s the only thing that matters.

That environment shapes how young athletes interpret their growth and identity.

When Stats Can Be Helpful (and When They Can Hurt)

Stats aren’t inherently bad. In fact, they can be a powerful learning tool when introduced with the proper support and mindset.

Stats can help when they:

• Show progress over time (e.g., improving free-throw percentage)

• Help set goals in a specific, measurable way

• Are paired with context (like effort, mindset, or situational challenges)

• Are just one piece of feedback—not the whole story

Stats can hurt when they:

• Become the only marker of success

• Are used to compare teammates harshly or publicly

• Cause stress or shame after every performance

• Make a young athlete question their worth, effort, or identity

What Adults Can Do to Support Healthier Stat Perspectives

You don’t have to ban numbers entirely. But you can help kids make sense of them in ways that build confidence and resilience.

Try these approaches:

1. Normalize ups and downs

Even elite athletes have off days. Let your athlete know that fluctuation is part of growth.

2. Teach how to read the numbers with context

Say, “Your shot percentage was lower this week—was it the defense, nerves, or something else?” Encourage curiosity, not judgment.

3. Ask questions about effort and mindset

“How did you feel about how you showed up?” or “What were you proud of today?” shifts the focus from outcomes to ownership.

4. Talk about what stats don’t show

Teamwork. Leadership. Kindness. Grit. If those matter to you, say it out loud. Kids need to hear it.

5. Model healthy reflection

Let them see you noticing patterns without spiraling. “That was a tough game. What can we learn from it?” is a great place to start.

Takeaway: Stats Are Just One Part of the Story

For young athletes, how they learn to think about stats can shape how they see themselves for years. You have the chance to help them build a perspective that values learning, effort, and emotional growth, not just numbers on a page.

Let’s ensure they grow up knowing this: who they are matters more than what the stat sheet says.

If you’re a parent or coach of a young athlete, think about the last few games or practices. What did you comment on? What feedback did they hear most clearly? If you're unsure how it's landing—or how to shift the message—we're here to help.

START HERE

Legal Disclaimer:

This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for mental health treatment, psychological services, or medical advice. Reading this post does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you are seeking support for your mental health or well-being, consider reaching out to a licensed mental health professional in your area.