How to Cheer Without Creating Pressure

Most baseball parents believe they're being supportive when they cheer from the stands. But research shows that some forms of cheering actually increase anxiety and reduce performance in young athletes.

Here's how to cheer in ways that genuinely help.

The Pressure Paradox

Cheering that focuses on outcomes — 'Come on, get a hit!' 'You need to score here!' — communicates that the outcome matters enormously. For a child who is already nervous, this amplifies the pressure rather than reducing it.

Cheering that focuses on effort and process — 'Stay focused!' 'You've got this!' 'Compete hard!' — communicates confidence in the player without adding outcome pressure.

What to Say

Before an at-bat: 'You've got this.' (Simple, confident, no outcome pressure)

After a good play: 'Great effort!' or 'Way to compete!'

After a mistake: Silence or a simple 'Next one.' (Don't try to coach or console from the stands)

After a strikeout: A smile and a thumbs up. (Communicate that you still believe in them)

What Not to Say

'Come on, you need to get a hit here!' 'Don't strike out!' 'Watch the ball!' 'You should have had that!'

All of these add pressure without providing any useful information.

The Silent Support

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply be present, calm, and visibly happy to be there. Children know when their parents are enjoying watching them play — and that knowledge is deeply motivating.