Growing up, I was definitely more of an indoor child. Yet, one of the most wonderful aspects of my life has been witnessing my sons develop a passion for basketball, track, and flag football. Now at 46, I take pride in my role as a sports mom, and my enthusiasm for the Warriors and Nets matches that of my children. Today, in collaboration with Lululemon, six women share their experiences as sports parents…
Joanna Goddard, editor
Sports your kids play: Basketball, flag football, track, and fishing.
What’s surprised you the most since becoming a sports mom: I used to think football was incredibly BORING, but wow, when I watch Anton’s flag football team, my heart races! I found myself joking with friends about this newfound revelation, saying, ‘Have you guys ever heard of football??’
Do you ever play sports with them: We often visit the park to shoot hoops (especially Toby’s favorite) or throw the football around. Additionally, Anton put together a strength-training plan for us at home, which is a fun bonding experience — I appreciate that he’s leading the charge!
Favorite Lululemon style to wear when playing with the kids: The navy high-rise joggers. They strike the perfect balance of slouchiness.
Jenny Rosenstrach, food writer
Sports your kids play: My oldest daughter participated in cross-country and track, while my younger daughter played soccer — both engaged in these sports from a young age through college.
What’s surprised you the most since your kids started playing sports: After all these years, they still find joy in their chosen sports. I was concerned about them burning out, but that never happened. As soon as my older daughter graduated from college, she sought out a running group in Brooklyn. Instant camaraderie.
What do you love about the sports that they play: It’s hard to believe my daughters are capable of these physical feats. Whenever my soccer player makes a dash down the wing or my cross-country daughter pushes through a difficult race, I think I’m in awe of what she can achieve.
Favorite Lululemon style to wear to your daughter’s games: The Glow Up Leggings in Navy. I wear them all the time!
Jannelle Sanchez, senior editor
Sports your kids play: We haven’t enrolled them in any sports yet, but we do spend afternoons kicking a soccer ball around our backyard.
Did you play sports as a kid: I played soccer and tennis. I can vividly recall the exhilarating feeling of mastering a new skill, whether it was a quick pass on the soccer field or a precise serve on the tennis court. I want my kids to feel that pride too.
What sports do you plan on signing your kids up for: Our close friend has all her daughters in softball. She’s coaching a team this fall, and we’re excited to sign up our daughter Ella!
Favorite Lululemon style: I live in these high-rise lined shorts. They’re light, breezy, and fantastic for runs and walks to the park.
Grace Farris, illustrator and doctor
Sports your kids play: Both of my children play soccer.
What’s surprised you about becoming a sports mom: Growing up, I wasn’t a sports fan, but my nine-year-old son Russ has got me into professional soccer. If I start discussing the 2026 World Cup, my parents will be like ‘Who are you?!’ This is my new reality.
Do you play any sports now? A couple of years ago, I coached an under-eight indoor soccer team. A parent asked if I had ever played soccer in college (!). I had to clarify that I was just winging it like Ted Lasso.
Advice for parents considering signing their kids up for a sports league: Approach it with curiosity.
Favorite Lululemon style to wear when attending sports games: I genuinely like the fit and comfort of these boatneck tops.
Liz Libré, co-founder of Lewis
Sports your kids play: My boys are into individual sports — skateboarding, skiing, climbing, biking, running. My daughter is involved in club soccer and rec basketball.
What surprised you the most since signing them up for sports: I anticipated my daughter would make friends, but I wasn’t expecting to forge wonderful friendships myself with the other parents!
What sports did you play growing up: I engaged in team sports from a young age through college, and it has been one of the greatest joys of my life. My mom passed away just before I started college, where I had committed to play lacrosse. Initially, I wasn’t sure if I could cope physically and mentally due to my sadness. But I pressed on, and it certainly helped me.
Do you play any sports now: I’m gearing up for a half marathon in a few weeks (with a group of my soccer mom friends!) and will participate in the NYC Marathon again this fall.
Favorite Lululemon style to wear on long runs: I’ve worn these high-rise leggings in my last two NYC marathons. I appreciate the convenient side pockets for my phone and the back pocket is just right for chapstick and fuel gel.
Youngna Park, writer and digital product advisor
What sports do your kids play: My kids are very much against team sports, but they are exceptionally active. They enjoy cycling loops in Prospect Park, roller skating, and ice skating.
Why don’t they like team sports and how have you approached that: My daughter tends to be a perfectionist, and I think she fears disappointing others. I do wish she would give a team sport a go, but I’m allowing her to guide her own choices.
Do you play any sports: Tennis is my absolute favorite. The mix of movement and strategy captivates me. Plus, my kids have become fans along with me. We attended the U.S. Open for the past two years, and my daughter is a huge fan of Coco Gauff.
Favorite Lululemon gear to wear when playing tennis: This high rise pleated tennis skirt fits surprisingly well for shorter individuals. I also won my singles match the very first time I wore it. Could it be good luck?
A few more Lululemon styles we adore…
Do your kids play sports? If so, what have you cherished about being a sports mom? If not, what hobbies do they excel in? We’d love to know!
(This post is sponsored by Lululemon, a brand we hold dear. Thank you for backing the brands that support Cup of Jo.)
**The Journey and Feelings of Being a Sports Mom**
Being a sports mom is an extraordinary and layered experience that mixes pride, sacrifice, stress, and happiness into a dynamic role that goes beyond the sidelines. Whether cheering from the stands, organizing carpools, or tending to scraped knees, sports moms are the unsung champions behind young athletes’ journeys. Their emotional landscape is as intricate as the games their children engage in, incorporating everything from joy to fatigue.
### The Daily Involvement
The life of a sports mom often starts before dawn and wraps up long after the final whistle. Early morning practices, weekend tournaments, and evening games become the norm. These moms balance work, household duties, and their child’s demanding sports schedule, frequently at the cost of their own time and comfort. Planning nutritious meals, washing jerseys, and prepping gear are all part of the daily routine.
Despite the physical and organizational challenges, many sports moms find satisfaction in the structure and purpose this lifestyle provides. Observing their child acquire discipline, time management, and teamwork skills bestows a sense of achievement and validation.
### Emotional Highs and Lows
The emotional experience of a sports mom can be a rollercoaster ride. There’s the excitement of seeing a child score their first goal, the pride in watching them lead the team, and the joy derived from shared victories. These moments are heartwarming and affirm the dedication of time and effort.
However, the lows can be equally profound. Observing a child struggle with performance anxiety, confront defeat, or face an injury is emotionally challenging. Sports moms often shoulder their children’s emotional burdens, providing support and encouragement while navigating their own feelings of helplessness or frustration.
There’s also the constant pressure to get it right—supporting without being overbearing, encouraging without intruding, and advocating without interfering. Finding this equilibrium is a relentless challenge.
### Fostering a Community
A frequently overlooked aspect of being a sports mom is the sense of community it cultivates. From connecting with other parents on the sidelines to organizing team events and fundraisers, sports moms often create strong social networks. These relationships offer emotional backing, practical tips, and a shared understanding of the distinct challenges they encounter.
This community becomes a second family, celebrating triumphs together and providing solace during setbacks. It also serves as a platform for moms to exchange resources, coordinate logistics, and rely on one another during particularly busy seasons.
### Personal Growth and Contemplation
While the focus often remains on the child’s growth, being a sports mom also facilitates personal development. Many moms uncover hidden strengths—resilience, patience, leadership—that they might not have discovered otherwise. They learn to manage stress, communicate effectively, and develop into adept problem solvers.
Moreover, the experience often encourages reflection on values such as perseverance, humility, and sportsmanship. Observing their children navigate the highs and lows of competitive sports can mirror their own emotional responses and growth.
### The Lasting Influence
As children age and eventually transition away from youth sports, the memories and lessons linger. Sports moms frequently reminisce about those years with fondness and pride. The early mornings, lengthy drives, and emotional investments evolve into cherished stories and shared experiences that fortify the parent-child connection.
Ultimately, being a sports mom is not solely about backing a child’s athletic endeavors—it’s about nurturing their aspirations, celebrating their efforts, and walking alongside them through victories and challenges. It’s a role imbued with love, commitment, and a profound emotional connection that leaves a lasting impact on both mother and child.
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**Conclusion**
The experience of being a sports mom is a powerful acknowledgment of the strength and commitment of mothers everywhere. It’s a journey characterized by emotional depth, personal sacrifice, and immense pride. While the scoreboard may not always yield the desired results, the real triumph lies in the unwavering support and love they offer at every turn.
