About this episode

The episode features a Q&A session addressing common parenting questions related to youth sports and summer activities.

Jeff, Brad, and Britt tackle real parent questions we've received in our first installment of a practical, no-nonsense Q&A series we call ASK US ANYTHING. From travel ball decisions to tackle football, handling losses, tough coaches, and creating balance in a year-round sports culture, the guys share honest perspectives and insights from their own experiences as parents and coaches. Key topics include: Should a dominant 12U baseball player join elite national travel teams that “just show up” for tournaments, or stay local and play with friends? When is the right age to start tackle football? (Flag vs. full contact, teaching proper tackling technique, and knowing your child) Helping a 10-year-old who cries after every soccer loss How to handle a bad umpire who tells your team to “throw in the towel” Should you let your kid quit a sport when it gets hard? Tough coaching vs. toxic coaching — where’s the line? How we manage the tension of wanting to create great summer experiences like summer camp, vacations, and free time with the desire to continue growth in your sport. The episode closes with a great conversation with Mike Murillo of Academy Camps — a unique sports-specific…

People in this episode

Host: Jeff Francoeur

Guest: Mike Murillo

Topics covered

• parenting in sports
• youth sports decisions
• coaching
• sports culture
• summer activities
• travel ball
• tackle football

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Academy Camps

More episodes of The Pure Athlete Podcast

• 174. Reclassifying - The Controversial Extra Year in Youth Sports · May 27, 2026 · 27 min
• 173. The State of Youth Sports with Aspen Institute's Project Play Director Tom Farrey · May 19, 2026 · 40 min
• 171. Catie Francoeur: Behind the Scenes With A Sports Mom · May 12, 2026 · 1h 4m

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