The latest statistics say that there are over 40 million kids participating in youth sports every year. And, that’s without mentioning the adults (i.e., parents friends and coaches). For the time being, let’s stick to the kids.

The kids are what I would term “unknown athletes.” I propose that is how it should be. Athletics is a place where kids get their first real lessons in relationships. They learn about competition, teamwork, dealing with wins and losses and the rewards for working hard. Hopefully they have fun in the process.

I say hopefully because I am not sure that they are having fun. Oh, I know the kids playing in the Little League World Series are having fun and even there I say not always.

All the great athletes we admire played as kids. Take all the star athletes in high school, college and the pros and you still have only the tiniest percentage of those 40 million kids. And, what about all the other kids? What was their experience? Did they learn the lessons and have fun doing it?

I have my doubts. I have been participating in sports at a high level for over 60 years. I have had many clients over the years who have had kids in youth sports and there are two complaints I have heard from them on a regular basis:

• Complaints about parents’ behavior

• Complaints about the coaching and the coach’s behavior

Kids inherently want to please their parents and their coaches. They can’t have fun when berated by either. They can’t have fun if the parents are maniacal on the sidelines or in the stands. They can’t have fun when their parents are at odds with the coach or vice versa. They are always between a rock and a hard place. It’s hard to serve two masters.

Stay tuned for my next blog post, “Kids, Kids, Kids Part II.” We will take a good look at the parent’s role in creating a rewarding experience for the kids.

“Hey Mom, Where’s My Glove” is Coach Todd’s book on youth sports. You can get your copy on lulu.com.