In this Christmas special episode of The Sports Parenting Playbook hosts Ben Russell and Kirk Bowyer discuss their take on the latest Christmas presents being marketed for children (and adults) this Christmas.

What presents could benefit a sports enthusiast child? What presents could do more harm than good to the development of children looking to ENJOY a sport.

Christmas is all about family and friends and the quality time you can spend with them making memories unwrapping presents and playing together. Listen to this episode to see what could be a Christmas hit this year and what might not do so well.

To find out more about Mini Athletics visit www.miniathletics.com

Follow us on social media @miniathletics

The views and opinions in this episode are those of the hosts. They have in no way been paid to endorse a product.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️ Episode Spotlight: Jarren Duran & The Clubhouse

In this episode, hosts Kirk Bowyer and Ben Russell dive into the buzzworthy Netflix documentary The Clubhouse, which takes viewers behind the curtain of the Boston Red Sox clubhouse.

Their focus? Episode 4, featuring rising star Jarren Duran, who opens up about his journey through sport and baseball. From the pressures of performance to the powerful influence of his father, Duran’s story shines a light on what it really means to “get better” — and the expectations young athletes face both on and off the field.

This conversation is a must-listen for parents navigating the complex world of youth sports, offering insights into the delicate balance between encouragement and pressure, and the crucial role parents play in shaping a child’s sporting experience.

⚠️ Content note: This episode includes discussions around mental health, which some listeners may find triggering.

💡 If you’re enjoying the podcast, don’t forget to leave us a review — it helps us reach more listeners like you!

👉 Learn more about Mini Athletics at www.miniathletics.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Sports Parenting Playbook, we sit down with Coach Ballgame (James Lowe)—a coach known for his infectious energy, creative approach, and deep love for baseball.

Together, we explore:

• ⚾ Engaging Coaching: How James brings fun, music, and personality to every practice and game.
• ❤️ Passion for Baseball: Why keeping the sport playful and accessible matters more than stats.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Sports Parenting Advice: Practical tips for parents to support their young athletes without pressure.
• 🌟 The Sandlot Tours Origin Story: The incredible moment when a stranger’s $20,000 donation sparked a nationwide movement.

Coach Ballgame’s journey is a reminder that sports are about joy, community, and lifelong memories—not just wins and losses.

• Follow Coach Ballgame on social media: @coachballgame
• Learn more about Mini Athletics: www.miniathletics.com
• Check out upcoming Sandlot Tour events near you: https://www.coachballgame.com/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.