The top four pieces of advice for parents to support their high-level teenage squash player include:
Encourage a positive attitude: High-level squash can be challenging, and it is important for parents to encourage their teenage player to maintain a positive attitude. This can include praising their efforts, reinforcing their strengths, and helping them to stay motivated and focused on their goals.
Provide emotional support: Teenage athletes may face a range of emotions, including excitement, anxiety, and disappointment. It is important for parents to provide emotional support and to be a sounding board for their teenager’s feelings and concerns.
Help manage their time: High-level sport can be time-consuming, and it is important for parents to help their teenage athlete manage their time effectively. This can include setting priorities, creating a schedule, and helping them to balance their sport commitments with other responsibilities, such as schoolwork and social activities.
Encourage healthy habits: High-level squash can be physically demanding, and it is important for parents to encourage their teenage athlete to develop and maintain healthy habits. This can include a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular physical activity outside of squash. (Ideally not with another racket sport)
On top of these 4 points, parents are essential to provide support for their teenage athlete's training and competition expenses. But be aware that “financing only” won’t be enough…