Being a sports mom is basically a full-time job on top of everything else you already do. Between practices, games, carpools, and somehow still getting dinner on the table, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly running on empty. And some days we fail. A couple months ago I got the time wrong on my son Brody’s flag football game. We arrived when it was ending. He cried so hard and said, “Mom I was going to “light it up on the field” and now I can’t!!” I still haven’t forgiven myself for this. So this kind of scenario doesn’t happen to you, here are my top tips to make your sports mom life a little easier. 

1. Plan Ahead (But Stay Flexible)

Schedules change. Games get delayed. Weather cancels practice. Having a plan is great, but being able to pivot is even better. Keep a shared calendar (ical, Google calendar) so the whole family knows what’s coming up. I also have an obnoxiously large desk calendar straight out of 1990 and all the practices are color coordinated. 

2. Keep a Fully Stocked Car Kit

If your car isn’t half living space, are you even a sports mom? Pack a “survival kit” with essentials: extra water bottles, huge blanket, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, wet wipes, a small first aid kit, and an extra set of clothes. Bonus: during outdoor sports season, just keep two foldable chairs in your car always. 

3. Meal Prep Like a Pro

The drive-thru is tempting, but having grab-and-go meals ready can save time, money, and stress. Prep protein-packed snacks like homemade energy bites, pre-cut fruit, and turkey roll-ups. Slow cooker meals and sheet pan dinners are also lifesavers for nights when you’re getting home late from practice. I have this cookie sheet with a wire rack on top to roast veggies and meat together. 

4. Set Boundaries and Say No When Needed

It’s easy to get caught up in saying yes to everything—snack duty, team fundraising, carpooling five extra kids. But burnout is real, and you can’t be everywhere all the time. Prioritize what’s important and don’t feel guilty about saying no when needed.

5. Make Time for Yourself

Easier said than done, right? But taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your young athlete. Whether it’s squeezing in a quick workout, catching up with a friend, or just enjoying a cup of coffee in silence (yes, please!), find those little moments to recharge.

6. Cheer Loud, But Keep It Positive

Being your child’s biggest fan is the best part of the job, but remember, the way we react on the sidelines matters. Keep the energy positive, encourage effort over results, and remind them that sports are supposed to be fun!

7. Capture the Moments, But Stay Present

Yes, take the pictures and videos (you’ll want them later!), but also take the time to just watch and enjoy. The years fly by, and one day, you’ll miss these crazy, busy, sports-filled Saturdays.

8. Connect with Other Sports Moms

No one gets it like another sports mom. The sideline squad is a real thing–embrace it! Build your support system with group texts, share the carpooling, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Carpooling apps like Carpool-Kids is really helpful if you are running multiple carpools. 

9. Encourage a Growth Mindset in Your Athlete

Not every game will be a win, and that’s okay. Help your child focus on improvement, effort, and teamwork rather than just the scoreboard. Teaching them resilience and a love for the game is what really matters in the long run.

10. Celebrate the Small Wins

Winning the championship is great, but so is your child hitting their first single, making a great pass, or simply showing good sportsmanship. Celebrate those little victories—they add up to something big over time–a well rounded kid who strives to try his or her best.

Final Thoughts

Being a sports mom is chaotic, exhausting, and sometimes overwhelming—but it’s also one of the most rewarding roles you’ll ever have. Embrace the craziness, find joy in the sidelines, and remember that you’re doing an amazing job.

P.S. Looking for the perfect way to show off your sports mom pride? Check out our CC Sports Mom Collection.