Sports Mama Tip: Rainy Game Day Essentials

Rain, rain, go away. It rained ALL weekend long here in Northern Virginia. Ugh. But, sports must go on! After sitting through four (yes, four!) games in the rain (2 soccer and 2 football), I realized that I have yet to write a post on rainy game day essentials, so, here we are!

• Poncho. My number one essential! I'm currently using this one. It is large, durable, and reusable. My clothes, head, and hair all stayed completely dry. I paid less than $10 for it and is holding up very well thus far!
• Umbrella. A no brainer. I'm on the hunt for a new one. Have one that you love? Please let me know!
• Hat. An added layer of protection under your poncho. I like to tuck all of my hair into mine because curly hair + rain = a hot mess!
• Rain boots. You can even find a pair to match your team colors! No rain boots? No problem! Any pair of waterproof, closed toe shoes will do!
• Layers. Layers and game days go together like peanut butter and jelly. Cold rainy day? Put on a few extra. Warm, humid and rainy? Take a couple off. There's nothing worse than being too chilly or too hot and not being able to do anything about it!
• Hand warmers. Nothing worse than being wet AND cold!
• Towel. To wipe the rain off of bleachers. To wipe the rain off of yourself.
• Stadium seat/cushion. Because who wants to sit on wet bleachers?! Umm.. not me!!
• Chair. At a game with no bleachers? Bring a chair. You can even get one like this with a canopy!
• Canopy. Speaking of canopies, they're not just for shade. They work just as well for keeping you (and your Sports Mama bffs!) dry. You can set it up on the sidelines or in the stands. Your choice!

Honorable mention:

• Under the Weather Pod. I don't own one, nor have I ever used one. In fact, I'm not sure I'd ever want to own one. BUT, I know that people are using them. In fact, I saw a mama with one at No. 3's flag football games last season. And I'll tell you what. She was definitely the driest person on the field. HA!

Stay dry, Sports Mamas!


Do you have a rainy game day essential that I missed? Let me know in the comment section below or in the Confessions of a Sports Mama Facebook Group!










*** Be sure to click HERE for my warm weather essentials and HERE for my cold weather essentials!

Sports Mama Tip: What's In My First-Aid Kit?

Cuts, bumps, scrapes, and bruises... they're bound to happen. Especially in youth athletes. And nothing is worse than being unprepared when they do!


So, what should you have in your Sports Mama First-Aid Kit?


Here's a look at mine:

As you can see I don't have your typical "box". In fact, I don't have a box at all. I use a gallon-sized Ziploc bag and a few sandwich-sized bags to group similar items together. I like it because it's see-through (which comes in super handy, especially if someone other than myself else needs to find it), easily portable, and it doesn't take up too much space (yet still holds a lot) in my Sports Mama Bag!


And here's what's inside:

• Band-aids (all sizes)
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic wipes
• Burn cream
• Eye wash
• Gauze pads
• Instant cold packs
• Adhesive tape
• Ibuprofen
• Antibacterial wet wipes
• Cotton swabs
• Disposable gloves
• Extra Ziploc bags (to add ice to, if needed)

Most youth coaches carry a majority of these items with them. However, my boys have been on a couple of teams where the coach didn't even have an ice pack.


The moral of this story is that it is better to be over prepared than underprepared. They say "to be prepared is half the victory". And as a Sports Mama, any quote with the word victory in it speaks to my soul!






Do you keep something in your first-aid kit that I don't? Let me know in the comment section below!




*** Is your athlete dealing with sore muscles? Click HERE for my tips on helping ease the pain!

Sports Mama Tip: Youth Soccer Player Essentials

Tomorrow is the first day of Spring AND the first day of soccer practice for No. 2! I'm one happy Sports Mama. I can't wait to be at the field again, sitting in my favorite chair, wearing my favorite flip flops and my favorite shades, and of course, watching (one of) my favorite boys play!


Here is what he I am sure he has with him at all times:

• Cleats. Although they aren't technically required, they without a doubt are recommended! They help with footing and ball control. No. 2's new cleats come with a built-in sockliner which is suppose to offer lightweight cushioning and comfort.
• Shin guards. These are a requirement. They are used to protect your athlete's shins from injury. My boys prefer the slip in ones. They are easy to put on and can even be thrown in the washing machine!
• Soccer ball. Most coaches ask that each player bring a ball with them to practice. In addition to practicing as a team, they also will typically work on individual drills such as dribbling. No. 2 will be playing 13U this season and will be using a size 5 ball. (Click here to find the correct ball size for your child.)
• Water bottle. Because your athlete will get thirsty. For those super hot days, be sure to pack a few extras. You can also ensure they stay cold by sticking them in the freezer the night before!
• Sunscreen. There is usually little to no shade at soccer fields. Ain't nobody got time for sunburn! I always look for ones that say "sport" on the bottle as they have the best staying power for sweaty athletes. I also make sure that it has a SPF of at least 50, and prefer sprays over lotions as they make the application process a cinch!
• Extra jersey. We have both blue and white jerseys, for home and away games. Even though I write every game (along with all pertinent details!) in my planner, things happen. Like my kid wearing his blue jersey when the rest of his team is wearing white... true story! So now, we take both with us. Just in case!
• Drawstring bag. To store ALL the things. Makes transport super easy as well! They can even throw in their preferred accessories, such as hand sanitizer, keys, and cellphone.

Here are a few other items which are not essentials, but seem to be quite popular amongst youth players these days:

• Slides. For comfort on the way to and from the field.
• Headband. To keep their hair out of their face. Or simply for looks.
• Compression shirts and pants. Helps keep them cool and dry. They come in a variety of colors, so finding some to match your athlete's uniform should be a breeze.

Let the season begin!




Have an essential not mentioned above? Feel free to share it in the comment section below!






*** Click HERE to see what I carry in my Sports Mama soccer bag!

Sports Mama Tip: Top FIVE Essentials For ALL Sports Moms

What do football mamas, soccer mamas, swim mamas, and cheer mamas all have in common?


That's easy! The fact that we LOVE our young athletes and that we spend A TON of time watching them do what they love!


Here are my FIVE Sports Mama must-haves, regardless of the sport your child plays:

1. Smart phone. I use my smart phone to email coaches, text my fellow sports mamas, get driving directions, access our team roster, take photos,  and to take videos. Seriously. What can't you do with a smart phone?
2. Planner. An electronic or a good ol' fashioned paper one will do. All that matters is that it is easily portable. Your athlete is going to have practices and games, usually at different times and different places. Somebody has to know what's going on!
3. Portable seating. Nothing is more uncomfortable than soaking wet (or too hot or too cold) bleachers! Folding chairs and stadium seats are your BFF. You can find folding chairs in all different colors, with cup holders, canopies, and even heated stadium seats!
4. Sports mama bag. Your athlete has their bag, but you need one too! What I carry in mine typically depends on the sport as well as the weather. A few things that I never leave home without are hand sanitizer, water, my mini-first aid kit, and snacks for siblings (because they will be hungry- even if you did just leave home 15 minutes ago!).
5. Sports Mama BFF. This is a must! There will be days that you simply can't get your athlete to the field or court on time. Finding a fellow mama who can help you out of this bind will make your life so much less stressful. Not to mention how nice it is to just sit back, chat and spend time with somebody who gets you.

Honorable mentions:

• DSLR camera (to get those Instagram worthy actions shots)
• Sunglasses (to keep the sun out of your eyes and or hide the fact that waking up early isn't your forte!)
• Folding sports wagon (to carry ALL the things)
• Cooler (to keep your athlete's drink cold- bonus points for packing extras, in case they or a teammate run out!)

I hope you found this list helpful! Do you have an essential that wasn't mentioned above? Please feel free to share it with us in the comment section.


Happy Sports Mama-ing!

Sports Mama Tip: Cold Weather Essentials

Baby, it's COLD outside! In fact, we're expecting 2-4 inches of snow here in Northern Virginia. Lucky for me, all three of my boys play basketball during the Winter so I can't complain too much. BUT, that doesn't mean that I'm not outside freezing my sports mama butt off during the end of football season and the beginning of Spring soccer!


I'd like to think that I've learned a thing or two over the last decade as a great portion of that time has been spent sitting on the sidelines of a field. And staying warm is definitely one of them!


Here is my list of cold weather essentials to help keep you warm and toasty all season long:

• Coat. A real coat; not a sweatshirt, fleece, or windbreaker. You need an insulated coat with a hood. Columbia and North Face make some super warm (and cute!) ones.
• Beanie. Even if your coat has a hood, you still want to wear one underneath. Being that it is fitted, it will do a much better job at keeping your head (and ears) warm!
• Gloves. I don't know about you? But, my hands are always the first thing to get cold! And cold hands are painful; and lead to dry, cracked hands of course. Click HERE to learn how to make your own spirit finger gloves!
• Wool socks. And after my hands, it's my toes!
• Layers. You can always take them off if you get too warm. This is probably my number one cold weather essential. I like the 32° brand Heat Base Layers. They're very similar to long underwear, but more lightweight. No more looking like you're wearing a diaper. Ha!
• Uggs. They are the absolute warmest boots in my opinion! I have a few different types, but the classic tall ones are my go-to when I know I'll be out in the cold. 
• Hand warmers. With just a quick shake, they help keep your hands warm for up to 10 hours. I simply tuck them inside of my gloves (or Uggs!) and I'm good to go!
• Blanket(s). I use a packable, down throw blanket that I received from one of my favorite football mama's a couple of years back. I love it because it's lightweight, yet very warm. And my favorite part about it is that it comes with a carrying bag that fits perfectly in my Sports Mama Bag!
• Stadium seat. If your field has bleachers, of course. There's nothing worse than not having to sit on cold bleachers. They even make heated ones! If you don't have one, a thick blanket will do!
• Hot chocolate. Because your insides deserve to be warm too! You can buy some at the concession stand or make your own at home and carry it in your favorite stainless-steel thermos.
• Portable heater. Perfect for keeping toasty while tailgating!

Stay warm, mamas!






Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comment section below!






*** Warm in your neck of the woods? No worries. I got you covered, Mama! Click HERE to read my Warm Weather Essentials. ***

Sports Mama Tip: Youth Football Player Essentials

We're almost halfway through July, which can only mean one thing... FOOTBALL IS COMING!!! Whether you're brand new to tackle football or your off season was so long that you need a refresher course, this post is for you!

Here is a list of what Coach Hubby and I are always sure that our boys have prior to the season kicking off:

• Equipment. Helmet, shoulder pads, pants (ours come with the built-in pads). Most clubs will provide these for you. This is the stuff that makes tackle, tackle.
• Chin strap. Your team will most likely provide this for you as well. No. 1 ended up purchasing this one with his own money this year, and has remarked about how comfortable it is.
• Padded compression shirt. My boys aren't very big. So, I'll take all the added protection I can get! These shirts have extra pads (shoulders, ribs, back) and are worn underneath their jerseys.
• Compression pants or shorts. My boys use these in place of underwear. They are more comfortable and help to keep them cool and dry.
• Cleats. They come in a variety of styles and colors, including low, mid, and high tops.  No. 1 prefers high tops while No. 2 prefers mid-rise. It's all a matter of personal preference.
• Mouth guard. This is a must! Your player won't even be allowed to play without one. In fact, they can cause their team a penalty if they don't have it in their mouth during the game! I would suggest keeping a back up at all times in case they lose it- or chew it to shreds. (Don't ask, just believe me! I've seen all kinds of things over the last 5 seasons). If your player has braces, be sure to get them one specifically designed for orthodontic work!
• Water bottle. While some coaches will bring water for the team, not all will. I like to be prepared- just in case. During the warmer months, I'll freeze their bottles overnight so that they will be nice and cool on the field.

I've also included a few optional items. They are by no means necessary, but my boys (and many of their teammates!) like to have them:

• Visor. Wear it for looks, wear it for keeping opponents fingers out of your eyes. Our league only allows for clear ones. Be sure to check with yours prior to purchasing a tinted one.
• Gloves. No. 1 plays quarterback so he chooses to wear only one on his non-throwing hand. No. 2 wears his whenever he remembers. Ha!
• Back plate. Another added layer of protection. They are designed to help protect their backs, especially for those players running the ball.

Writing this post definitely made me that much more excited for the upcoming season! I'm looking forward to being back in my happy place.


Did I miss anything? Feel free to share your football player's essentials in the comments below!

Sports Mama Tip: Travel Basketball Backpack Essentials

I've already written a What's In My Basketball Mama Bag post, but what should your travel basketball player pack in THEIR bag???


No. 1 is currently using the Nike Hoops Elite Backpack. They were ordered as a team. It's water resistant, has a mesh sleeve that can fit up to a size 15 (15!) pair of sneakers, a vented wet/dry compartment which allows him to store any dirty clothes, and not to mention pretty cool looking!

Here's what goes inside:

• Basketball sneakers. Most travel players wear slides aka sandals or non-basketball sneakers to and from the games. Comfort is key.
• Shooting shirt. Gym temperatures are so unpredictable. It may be a little too cool to walk around in just a jersey while waiting for the game to begin. If it's really cold out, you can throw in a sweatshirt.
• Knee Pads. They're used to protect their knees should they go down, but I'm pretty sure most kids these days mainly wear them for looks.
• Mouthpiece. Chipped teeth can happen in basketball too!
• Headband. To keep the sweat out of their eyes and/or the hair out of their face.
• Water Bottle. Self explanatory. Hydration is crucial! I usually add some powdered Gatorade mix to it. Much cheaper than buying bottled Gatorades!
• Hand sanitizer. This is definitely me being a mama bear. My *hope* is that he'll use it when snacking in between games.
• Cellphone. Because he's a teenager. And because sometimes I can't make it due to scheduling conflicts with No. 2 and No. 3. This allows me to reach him for game updates, should I need to.
• Snacks. Tournaments can be LONG. They will get hungry, it's a given. I make sure he has a mixture of fruit, granola bars, and something sweet.
• Cash. Sometimes they need more than snacks. Especially when there are hours in between games. I like to be sure he has a little money should he need to buy a hotdog or something more filling from the concession stand.

I hope you found this post helpful! If you have any other suggestions, please feel free to share them in the comment section below.

Go Stars!!!






*** Click HERE to read my AAU Tournament Survival Tips!