What Every Athlete Needs to Hear Before a Game (Especially During Playoffs)

It’s playoff time, and for many athletes, that means bigger stakes, bigger pressure, and bigger emotions.

As parents, we want to support our kids, but sometimes, without realizing it, we add to the pressure instead of relieving it.

The car ride to the game, the night before a big match, those final moments before they take the ice, field, or court—these are the moments that shape how they step into competition.

And what you say to your athlete before a game truly matters.

The Best Thing You Can Say Before a Game

I recently joined Our Kids Play Hockey for a podcast, and during our conversation, host Lee mentioned something that really stuck with me.

He shared that they had previously recorded an episode about the top three things parents should say to their kids before a game, and one of those things was simply:

"I love you."

As soon as he said that, I thought, YES.

And I added:

"Work hard, have fun, and no matter what—I love you."

Because when it comes down to it, this is the message every athlete needs to hear before a big game, a tryout, or a playoff match:

• My love for you doesn’t change based on how you play today.
• You don’t have to earn my approval through performance.
• I am proud of you, win or lose.

A Lesson from the Super Bowl

This actually reminded me of a powerful moment from this year’s Super Bowl.

Before the game, one of the players’ daughters told him:

"Good luck, Daddy, and no matter what happens, I will always love you."

That moment stuck with me because it’s the kind of thing I wish more parents said to their kids before games.

Because let’s be real—how often do we, as parents, unknowingly pile on expectations?

Even with the best intentions, we say things like:

• "You’ve gotta bring your A-game today!"
• "Make sure you score early!"
• "You need to play your best—this is a huge game!"

And while we mean well, what kids actually hear is:

• I have to be great today or I’ll disappoint them.
• If I don’t perform, I’m letting everyone down.
• Winning matters more than anything.

Your Words Shape Their Mindset

Before a game—especially during playoffs—your child is already feeling the nerves, the excitement, and the pressure.

What they need most in that moment is reassurance, not added expectations.

The best thing you can do?
Keep it simple, supportive, and pressure-free.

Next time you’re in the car before a big game, try saying this instead:

“Work hard, have fun, and no matter what—I love you.”

Because that message sticks with them far beyond the game.

And at the end of the day, isn’t that what truly matters?

What Do You Tell Your Athlete Before a Game?

I’d love to hear from you! What do you say to your athlete before they compete? Drop a comment below and let’s start a conversation.