Get Ready for the Thrill: What to Expect at a Sports Tournament

If you have a child who plays sports, then you know there’s nothing quite like the thrill of a tournament. The nervous energy leading up to the start of the day, the many games happening all at once, the cheers from everyone supporting their teams and so much more. It’s a fun-filled time with highs and lows like no other.

As parents and guardians, you're not just spectators; you're the support crew, the cheerleaders and the trusted advisors. Whether it's your child's first tournament or they're a seasoned competitor, your presence is a beacon of encouragement and a critical part of their sporting journey. Win or lose, the thrill of a victory and the "we'll get 'em next time" team huddles are memories that will last a lifetime. So, let's keep it chill, have some fun, and make some memories, shall we?

Preparing for the Tournament

The team will fill you in on the practical details like arrival time and break schedules tailored for your child, but it's up to you to give it a once-over before game day. Mark down any must-see games, especially if your child is playing, and note the breaks. These are your opportunities to grab a quick coffee or a bite to eat for your star player. It's also the perfect chance to have a chat with other parents, exchange stories and build that sense of community that comes with team sports.

Remember, flexibility is vital. Tournaments can be unpredictable, with schedules sometimes shifting at the last minute. So, while you've got your plan, be ready to adapt. Keep an eye on any announcements from the organizers or quick updates that might come your way. Staying nimble will ensure that you never miss those key moments that could become the cherished memories of your child’s sporting life.

Beyond the schedule, here are a few tips to help your young athlete stay in the zone:

Relax your expectations

Tournaments can be a pressure cooker, with unfamiliar settings and unknown opponents. Piling on expectations to perform well can backfire, creating anxiety that could mess with your child’s game and overall tournament experience. Instead, encourage them to focus on playing their best and enjoying the game. Remind them that it's okay to be nervous and that you are proud no matter what the scoreboard says. This approach can help keep their nerves in check and allow them to play with a clear head.

Maintain your routine

Tournaments are a special kind of buzz, but it's best to keep the home routine steady. Stick to what's typical for your family, and don't overhype the event. Follow your child’s lead. If they don’t make a big deal about the event, you shouldn't either. On the other hand, if the tournament talk is getting out of hand, try redirecting the conversation or distracting them with routine tasks. This can help keep jitters at bay and ensure your child steps onto the field feeling centered and calm.

Stick with the tried and true

Think of game day as a 'best hits' playlist—not the time to drop a new track. Breaking in new gear or trying out new pre-game snacks can lead to unexpected hiccups. Stick with the equipment and routines that your child is comfortable with. This familiarity can boost their confidence and let them focus on the game instead of adjusting to something new.

Performance isn't a bargaining chip

It's tempting to promise a new video game or a special outing if they score the most goals or hit the most home runs, but this strategy can backfire. When you tie rewards to performance, it can increase the pressure they feel to perform, which can spike anxiety levels and negatively impact their game. Instead, emphasize the importance of effort, sportsmanship and simply enjoying their experience. Celebrate these aspects, and let the results be a secondary concern.

Take it easy and savor the moment

You've done your part in getting your athlete to the tournament on time, prepped and ready to play. Now's the time to kick back and soak it all in. Your energy is contagious—if you're calm and having a good time, chances are, they will, too. So cheer from the stands, celebrate every good play and be there with a high five or a hug when needed. Your unwavering support is what they'll remember long after the final whistle blows.

Tournaments at Cedar Point Sports Center

On tournament day, allow extra time for parking and finding your way to the correct court. Although parking is free, and there's plenty of it, it can still take a minute to gather with your team before the games begin. Depending on the size of your tournament, navigating the courts can get hectic quickly, so it’s best to give yourself a few extra minutes to get to your court.

Don't worry about hauling your own chairs; we've got seating covered. With over 2,000 spots across bleachers and individual seats, you'll find a place to settle comfortably. And forget the vending machine fare—no need to rely on just snacks. Our on-site concession stand has a full kitchen and serves up various freshly made meals and grab-and-go options to enjoy.

Planning A Tournament

Find your solution here at Cedar Point Sports Center! We have ten full-size basketball courts that convert to 20 volleyball courts, including a championship court with seating for up to 700! The central court area is 78,000 square feet of uninterrupted space. That’s right, no columns! With this amount of space, we can accommodate events of all sizes. PLUS, all youth tournament participants will receive complimentary 5-Day passes to Cedar Point and Cedar Point Shores!

Contact us today and let us help you plan your next tournament!