We spent a lot of time in the bleachers as our kids were growing up, and often their grandparents would be right there as well, shouting encouragement, enjoying treats from the concession stand, and feeling the thrill of the game in real time.
I fully expected that I would do the same when grandkids arrived in our lives. That plan didn’t actually come to fruition (and that is okay!) But distance definitely keeps us from sitting on the bleachers or standing along the soccer field sidelines.
But here’s what I am learning, and it is good news. Love doesn’t have a seat number. It doesn’t need a front-row ticket. Even from miles away, we are still an important part of our grandchild’s team – still a voice they hear cheering them on, even when they can’t see us.
As we prep for Fall sports, and perhaps year-round sports, we want to share some truths and tips with you that will help you stay in the game, even from a distance!l
Remember – Your Presence is Bigger Than Your Location
- Whether you’re watching over Zoom, getting text updates (in real time or days later), or searching online for local newspapers that have game results, what matters most is that your grandkids know you’re rooting for them, win or lose.
- You are part of their success story! Grandkids carry the voices of those who believe in them. I love hearing our son share memories of his grandparents being at his games, and the words of encouragement they shared.
- When you cheer them on — even quietly, even from a distance — you’re building their confidence and resilience.
4. Cheering Them On Beyond the Scoreboard
- Your grandchild doesn’t just need a fan for their wins. They need a believer for every practice, every spot on the team, and for when they are cheering on their team as well.
While it’s fun to celebrate wins, there’s so much more to acknowledge:
- Effort
- Teamwork
- Sportsmanship
- Courage to try something new
- Perseverance after a loss
You might not see the scoreboard, but you can still notice the growth. Celebrate the missed goals that are both made and missed.. The time spent on the sidelines they tell you about. The story of the teammate they encouraged. These moments matter too — sometimes even more.”
In This Post
Practical Ways to “Stay in the Game” from Afar
1. Request and Record the Schedule
- Ask your adult kids for the full season schedule.
- Put each game day in your calendar with a 15-minute reminder to text, send encouragement or perhaps pray for safety and a good game.
- Treat game day like it matters to you — because it does.
2. Pre-Game or Post-Game Text Prompts
Instead of “Good luck!” or “How was the game?” try something more specific:
- “What’s one thing you’re hoping goes well today/this week?”
- “Who’s your toughest opponent this week?”
- “What’s one thing you learned from this game?/What is your team focusing on this week?”
Set Up a “Game Report” Ritual
- If it works better for your grandchild’s schedule, you could choose one day a week, or every couple weeks to talk about/send messages about sports or activities. Let them lead this.
- Ask:
- “What are you proud of this week?”
- “When did you you feel like a great teammate?”
- “Have their been any tough plays that taught you something valuable?”
3. Mail a Mid-Season Encouragement Pack
- Include:
- A note that says, “You’re doing awesome — all teams need teammates who cheer each other on and practice hard!”
- Fun sports-themed stickers, gum, a little gift card for an after game treat.
- A scripture or quote about courage or teamwork.
- An article, or even a book about the sport they are playing, or a story about a favorite player they admire.
Ask your grown kids for a photo of your grandchild in action, or in their uniform. You can send it back with a handwritten note or a fun sports themed collage that says“You look like a total champion!”
This can become a tradition for every season they play — something they look forward to.
Closing Thought:
Whether you are in the bleachers or your living room, love finds a way. Keep showing up in all the beautiful, creative ways you can. You are still in the game. And your grandchild is so much better for it!