How do I teach 8yo son to be more competitive?

Question

My 8yo boy is really good at soccer but lacks the competitive drive his father and I have in sports? How do I inspire him to push to be better without breaking his love of the sport or being to pushy?

Answer 1

You don't. You accept the fact that he enjoys playing the game and congratulate him when he does a good job.

Eventually, the sports fever could kick in - but until enjoy the quiet.

Answer 2

An 8 year old does things because he enjoys it, not because he wants to win. Unfortunately too many parents these days spoil a child's opportunity to just enjoy the game for the sake of play. As he matures and becomes more competent in the sport, he will also become more competitive. If he doesn't, then perhaps he does not consider the sport as more than a past time.
I would say that you basically answered your own question...if you push him he may lose the desire to play, because it isn't enjoyable any more.
There is nothing more disturbing to me than to see parents try to impose their own characteristics, flaws and all, onto their children. There is nothing wrong with being competitive, but you must remember, there is also nothing wrong with not being competitive. It may be that your son will choose a different outlet for personal satisfaction in his life. If so, then you need to support his choice gracefully.
For what it is worth , my youngest is 13, and has only developed her competitive streak about a year or so ago!

Answer 3

If he's having fun, that's really all you can ask of an 8 year old.

Being competitive is something that will naturally occur when he really wants something. Being competitive isn't really an innate quality - meaning, we don't have a natural desire to be the best since birth. It is something we acquire.

Eventually, soccer will naturally get more competitive, and he will either rise to the occasion and step it up and get that competitive edge for his team, or he'll grow tired of it and choose to only play as a hobby. It really is his decision, and you need to trust that he'll make the right one for him. Just let him know that you are proud of him and that you want him to always try his best when he does things.

If he doesn't get competitive about soccer, he'll probably get competitive about something else. Some other sport, some other hobby, school, etc.

Answer 4

I think It might be better to let him play in his own pace and let him learn on his own effort. He has to have his own dream and have
have other aspirations. He is still growing and should be
encouraged to get involved in other activities. He is his own person.
As a parent you role should to be his mentor, not push him hard to make him exact copy of your self and your husband's. Any way soccer is a team effort not one individual glory. good luck