Like most parents I worry that my children aren’t getting the proper nutrition. The busy schedules that we keep mean meals are often taken on the run. Admittedly, I have on many occasions succumbed to the convenience of ‘the drive-thru.’ (Although I have often wondered, “What part of the chicken does the ‘nugget’ come from?”)

What [...]

Back when we were growing up it seemed there was only a small array of sports from which kids could choose to play. Nowadays we as parents together with our kids have a host of activities in which to participate. The question is should we allow our children to pick one sport to be really [...]

Several years ago my daughter cheered for a different youth sports organization other than i9 Sports. I faithfully took her to practice four times a week and ‘cheered’ for her every Saturday during football season. I have also attended many baseball games in support of my nephew, who was an avid baseball player all the [...]

You left work late and now you’re racing across town to get your son to football practice on time. You curse under your breath, hoping to catch a lucky break and make up some much needed time, yet you catch every single red light. A few days later when shopping for a particular brand of [...]

School may have just gotten out for summer but it’s not too soon to start thinking about the fall. Maybe your child is taking that big leap from elementary to middle school; or, from middle to senior high. Or, you’re struggling with the fact that your “baby” will be starting first grade. Changes like these [...]

Admittedly, I am your typical ‘soccer mom’. I drive an SUV filled with sports equipment and spectator chairs and is decorated with soccer ball paraphernalia. And, for some reason no amount of pine freshener can quite cover up the smell of sweaty socks and dirty cleats.
I don’t mind because my son loves to play and [...]

As we enter the dog days of summer there’s one thing to remember with your kids that’s just as important as slathering on sunscreen – staying hydrated. Having been involved with athletics for most of my life I realized the importance of drinking plenty of water at an early age. Despite my own parents not [...]

For those of you who have visited us previously, you may have noticed that our “Parents Blog” tab has been relocated to the “Our Community” area on the right side of the i9sports.com home page. It’s just below the “Parents” button. Thanks for finding its new home and visiting us here at the i9 Sports Parents [...]

Summer afternoon, summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language. – Henry James
Hmmm… I’m willing to bet Henry James didn’t have a houseful of kids underfoot all summer long! Look out parents! School’s out for summer or will be very soon! And, if you’re like me [...]

Much has been written and said in recent years about increased incidents of unsportsmanlike behavior among parents and coaches in youth sports. Unfortunately, incidents like these seem to take the focus off the countless benefits that come with playing youth sports.
As a father and believer in the positive benefits of youth sports, I refused to [...]