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How To Handle The Pouting Athlete With Attitude Problems

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This resource stems from a question submitted to the Ask PCA blog. Responses come from our experts including PCA Trainers, who lead live group workshops for coaches, parents, administrators and student-athletes.

"There is a player on the team who has some pretty serious behavioral issues. In a game recently, he hit the first two batters he faced. As our pitching coach went out to settle him down, he started to lose it. We weren't gonna take him out of the game for hitting two batters, but we ended up removing him for his behavior. In the bottom of the first, he struck out and threw a second fit.

I'm not sure how much of an impact we can have in our limited time with him if the parents aren't willing to recognize any issues. There are obviously many more details to consider, but I'm consumed with making the right decision going forward and I'm wondering if there is someone on your end who is available to talk to."

PCA Response by PCA Lead Trainer, Joe Terrasi

Thanks for writing with such a challenging question. Having worked with children with behavioral challenges in the school setting, I can assure you that your inclination not to give up on the child is a good place to start. It may not be the easiest approach to live up to, but it is certainly in the child’s best interest.

You are correct in identifying that the parents’ reluctance to see the issues is difficult. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon. In school settings, we often try to bring together a team of the parents and all the professionals who work with the student to share concerns and identify consistent strategies.

Download a printable version of this resource, including any additional commentary from PCA, by clicking the PDF below. To read more questions and answers like this, or to submit your own question to the Ask PCA blog, click here.

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