Quote: However, you seem to want a specific answer as to what to do regarding this family member, so here's as specific as I can be: Talk to the coaches to get an average on how many games the player will participate in throughout the season. Then sit down with the child and lay it out for them and be clear about approximately how many games will be played and how much work will go into playing during the year. Lay out continued expectations regarding grades and responsibilities that continue despite the playing time--and not in a mean or scary way that intends to frighten them into a decision either.
Then ask the PLAYER what SHE wants to do and let her do it.
If she's U18, it sounds like she's probably a senior. It may be her last year to hang out with fellow players and teammates and play this competitively and it's a year she should enjoy as much as possible while still working hard. She's almost an adult; almost out of the home and having to take care of herself at college. I think she's probably ready to sit down and decide whether or not this CESA team is one SHE wants to play for, not one her family thinks she should.
Good advice.
Also, realize that if she is U-16....she may have an entirely different outlook when she is U-18. That doesn't mean the U-16 & U-17 years were a "waste".
Kids play sports because they find it fun. Eliminate the fun and soon you eliminate the kid.
