Expert: Dr. Jerry Martin Jr. - 9/1/2009

Question
My 13 year old son has come to my husband and I wanting to quit playing basketball after this year (8th grade year).  He has been playing since 3rd grade and has always talked about playing in college.  He is a starter on his team and has always started.  He will probably play varsity either all 4 years in HS or atleast 3 of the years.  I am concerned because just out of the blue he told us he isn't playing in HS.  He told us it was because he felt burnt out.  What I don't understand is how can a kid who is so talented and want to play all year round - go from that to quitting.  I realize he won't play in college because he is a good player for the area we live in with the kids he plays with.  That I don't care about.  I can't figure out if someone threatened him not to play or if he really doesn't want to play.  If he is burnt out - why doesn't he just quit now.  He is on a fall league and we told him we would take him out of that.  He said no that he wants to play the fall league, winter league and summer league and not go out in HS.  I just can't get a hold of this.  Is there anything we should be concerned with?

Answer
Hi Barb,

Lot of things had/has changed since our times in high school.  Being 9th grader, will be difficult for him, new teachers, new environment, new schedule, and of course lots of schoolwork/homework.  It may effect his decision to not play basketball during high school years.

He may meant "burned out" tiring of playing basketball, he wanted to do something different.  It could be just a talk or for a real.  I suggest you to wait and see.  Allow him make his own choices/decisions.

At least he told You just need show your support for him and be proud of him.

You have a nice day.


Doc Jerry