In this episode, Rob welcomes back Mitch Hull for a honest conversation about how to fix youth sports. They explore the root causes of parent conflict, why playing time dominates every sideline conversation, and what coaches and athletic leaders can actually do to shift the culture. From parent meetings to post-game behavior, Mitch shares practical, field-tested advice on how to create transformational environments rooted in purpose—not pressure.
This episode is for anyone who’s tired of the noise around youth sports and ready to do something about it.
Topics Covered
Are parents the disease or the symptom?
Why every conflict eventually comes down to playing time
How to run a parent meeting that sets the tone
Why kids quit—and how coaches and parents unintentionally push them away
What it means to “coach the experience,” not just the outcome
Simple tools to humanize the game and build real connection
Key Takeaways
Parents judge what they see, and if coaches don’t show value beyond playing time, that’s all parents will care about.
Playing time is finite—so give parents something infinite to hold onto: their child’s experience, character, and growth.
We can’t wait for others to fix youth sports. Coaches must lead—early, often, and intentionally.
Small, consistent moments of connection (thanking officials, affirming opponents, celebrating effort) transform culture more than any policy ever will.
The best programs teach kids how to respond to adversity—not avoid it.
Rapid Fire Wisdom
Build trust early: share your “why” with parents and athletes
Train coaches to lead, not just manage
Normalize mistakes and model healthy response to pressure
Reinforce values through routines (trash pickup, handshakes, put-ups)
Resources + Links
🎧 Listen to more episodes:
https://beyondcoaching.alitu.com
📰 Coaching insights, articles, and tools: https://impactfulcoachingproject.substack.com
📚 Books:
• Coaching and Leading the 21st Century Athlete
• Athletic Department Leadership and Developing Coaches
Available now on Amazon.
