Calm Sideline Protocol Card Builder

Step 1 of 4 — Quick Self-Check

How do you typically show up on the sideline?

Answer 4 quick questions. Your answers personalize your game-day card — there are no wrong responses.

During a game, how often do you give specific instructions to your athlete? (e.g., "Move your feet," "Look up," "Get back on defense")

Rarely or never Sometimes — specific moments Often — I can't help it Frequently throughout the game

How does your expression or body language change when your athlete makes a mistake?

Stays calm — I stay neutral Slight reaction — brief, then recovers Visible — my athlete probably notices Strong — I feel frustrated and it shows

What typically happens in the first 10 minutes after a difficult game?

I give them space first Mix of encouragement and feedback I start the debrief conversation I express my frustration honestly

When your athlete doesn't apply something you've coached them on, you typically feel:

Patient — it takes time Curious — I wonder what's blocking them Frustrated — we've worked on this Urgent — I need to address it now

Step 2 of 4 — Before Competition

What will you say in the last 60 seconds before they take the field?

The goal is a brief, calm handoff — transferring ownership to your athlete so they walk onto the field focused on competing, not managing your expectations.

Suggested scripts — click to use, or write your own below:

Your Before commitment — what you'll say:

Step 3 of 4 — During & After

Phase

During Competition

Goal: Supportive presence — not silence through gritted teeth, but genuine permission for them to compete without managing your emotions.

What is your biggest trigger during a game? The moment you feel the strongest urge to instruct, correct, or react.

Repeated mistakes Decisions I disagree with Their visible frustration High-stakes moments Perceived lack of effort

When that trigger hits, your During commitment:

Suggested responses:

Phase

After Competition

Goal: Space first, then conversation only when they're ready. The first words you say set the emotional tone for how they process the game.

How long will you wait before bringing up the game?

Until they bring it up At least 30 minutes After we're home and settled Next day if they need space

Your first words — what you'll say immediately after the game:

Suggested first words:

Before offering any feedback, you'll ask:

Calm Sideline Protocol
Card Builder

Step 1 of 4 — Quick Self-Check

How do you typically show up on the sideline?

Step 2 of 4 — Before Competition

What will you say in the last 60 seconds before they take the field?

Step 3 of 4 — During & After

Phase

Phase

My Calm Sideline Protocol

This Week's Challenge

Pick one competition. Hold to your Before/During/After protocol. Then ask your athlete: "Do you want instructions during games, or just cheering?" Their answer is the authority.

Calm Sideline ProtocolCard Builder

Step 1 of 4 — Quick Self-Check

How do you typically show up on the sideline?

Step 2 of 4 — Before Competition

What will you say in the last 60 seconds before they take the field?

Step 3 of 4 — During & After

Phase

Phase

My Calm Sideline Protocol

This Week's Challenge

Pick one competition. Hold to your Before/During/After protocol. Then ask your athlete: "Do you want instructions during games, or just cheering?" Their answer is the authority.

Calm Sideline Protocol
Card Builder