Game day comes with all kinds of emotions—excitement, pressure, frustration, joy. As parents, one of our best roles is to help our kids learn how to navigate those feelings in a healthy way.
One powerful tool from Away Game is the use of focal points—little reminders that help athletes reset when the game gets overwhelming. A wristband, a word written on a shoe, or even a hand gesture from us in the stands can become a visual cue that says: pause, breathe, and remember who you are.
A perfect example is The Four bracelet that every athlete in our league should have already received from their coach. It’s more than just a band—it’s a reminder of truth. When kids glance down at that bracelet, it can be their focal point to stop, take a breath, and reset both their attitude and their effort. You can learn more about The Four and what it stands for here: thefour.fca.org.
Focal points don’t just redirect behavior in the moment—they shape character. They help our kids flex their self-control muscles, choosing calm instead of anger, focus instead of panic. And here’s the gift: by learning this on the field or court, they’re actually picking up a tool they can use for the rest of their lives.
As you head into this week’s games, encourage your child to use their bracelet—or another focal point—as their personal “reset button” when emotions start to rise.
Coming Next… Meet Ray
Starting next week, we’ll introduce you to Ray—a fictional 10-year-old athlete navigating sports, life, and faith. Through short stories from his journey, you’ll get a front-row seat to what many of our kids experience: the excitement, the challenges, and the lessons learned along the way. Our hope is that as you follow Ray’s story, you’ll see your own child in his shoes—and discover new ways to guide them with grace.
Want to dive deeper? Away Game: A Christian Parent’s Guide to Navigating Youth Sports reminds us that every practice, every game, and every ride home can become a moment of spiritual growth and intentional discipleship. Explore more of these insights here: Away Game on Amazon.
Win The Day,
Troy Farley
FCA Sports Leagues Director