Is there a such thing as, TOO MUCH BASKETBALL?

Question
Hello, I have a 10 year old in the fifth grad; who truly loves the game of basketball.  He practices everyday, seen days a week.  He reads books to study the game and how it works, but he gets so very frustrated with himself at times. My wife and I have become concerned for his health.  Yes, I work with him to prove that thru hard work anything can happen.  He shoots everyday and works on so many things *I can't even tell it all to you.  Now, here comes game time and he plays afraid, not using any of the things...I have seen him do in practice.  Is this normal? He once said that he know he could beat one of the other kids, so he pull back to give him a chance. Is this normal? The reason that I ask these questions is that my wife and I want to support him but not in some that may not be for him.  

Answer
Hi Von Butler,

The first and most important thing is the game of basketball is supposed to be fun, especially at the age of 10. If it is not fun anymore and especially at 10, then I would say he needs to take a step back from the game. I always stress the attitude is the most important attribute of a player.

It is normal for players to practice skills and when game time comes go back to old habits. Players do this when we they are nervous or fatigued. We always revert back to our comfort zone. Concerning his frustration with his performance. He needs to understand you are going to have good days and bad days in basketball just like everything else in life. If he keeps practicing he will have more good days then bad if he keeps a positive attitude. Remind him the best in the game have bad shooting nights but they keep shooting and beleive in themselves. Remind him Michael Jordan was cut from his high school basketball team and he ended up being one of the best or even the best the game has ever seen. Concerning the pulling back and letting a player have a chance: Tell him that is very nice of him but it is not helping the other player as the other player wont get any better if he is not going as hard as he can. It's not fair to the other player or himself.

It sounds like your son loves the game but needs to work on the mental aspect of the game. He is 10 so that will come in time. I would keep supporting him and stress to him, the game is supposed to be fun. Help him have fun with the game. Make practicing fun by working with him and keeping it lite and not so serious. I am not saying to not to work hard but it should be enjoyable.  

I hope this helps and if you need anything else please dont hesitate to write again. Good luck!