PCA Resource zone

Parent/Caregiver Tips: Protecting Athlete Well-Being During College Sports Recruiting

The college recruiting process can place significant emotional and mental demands on high school athletes. This resource helps parents and caregivers support their athlete’s well-being throughout the journey by focusing on balance, healthy boundaries, and stress management.

Inside, you’ll find practical guidance for recognizing signs of overwhelm, creating supportive routines, setting “recruiting-free” time at home, and helping athletes maintain perspective during a high-pressure season. The resource also includes conversation prompts, stress-reduction strategies, and tips for supporting athlete autonomy while staying connected and involved in healthy ways.

Designed to help families navigate recruiting with empathy and clarity, this guide emphasizes that an athlete’s well-being matters more than any recruiting outcome—and that the skills developed during this process can support lifelong resilience and confidence.


This resource was generated in collaboration with Dr. Suzanne Button, Clinical Psychologist for the Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie. The Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie is a 179-year-old organization that provides a full range of Community Based and Residential Services, giving hope and healing to at-risk children and families throughout the country.