top of page
YOUTH SPORTS BOOK

70%OF KIDS QUIT YOUTH SPORTS BY AGE 13

A graphic of 7 gray and 3 black silhouetted children standing in grass

LET THAT SINK IN!

It’s not the score, the drills, or the gear. It’s us.

This book isn’t about blame – It’s about getting real.

Mike Bergstrom takes on sideline behavior, social media noise, unsolicited advice, and everything in between.

If you’ve ever winced at your own voice after a game – or dreaded that long drive home - this is for you.

Discover The Key to Making Youth Sports Enjoyable Again!

Seventy percent of kids have quit youth sports by the age of thirteen, and author Mike Bergstrom believes the most crucial part of that problem happens after the final whistle: the car ride home.

In this heartfelt and humorous book, Bergstrom draws from his own experience as a coach, a parent, and a grandparent to share stories of both his triumphs and his mistakes. This book is not a lecture on what parents are doing wrong; it is a candid and insightful look at the common pitfalls that can make youth sports a stressful experience for kids. It challenges parents to engage in self-reflection on everything from sideline behavior and communication with coaches to the emotional impact of comparing children to their teammates.

The Car Ride Home is an invitation to put a different kind of playbook into action—one that prioritizes a child's love for the game over winning. It's a powerful guide for parents who want to ensure their kids have fun, build confidence, and, most importantly, stay in the game longer.

A photo of Mike Bergstrom and two grandchildren with blue sky and trees in background

Mike Bergstrom & Granddaughters

"Ever wonder what our kids will remember the most about their youth?

The wins and losses or the time we spend with them after the game?

Win, lose, or draw, this is our chance to make sure they know how proud we are and how much we love watching them play.

Want to see a kid light up?

After the next game, kneel down to their level, look them in the eye, and just say:

'That was awesome, I am so proud of you,' and then hug them!"

-Mike Bergstrom

Heck of a good read!

Sometimes you have to hear it to know you were going about things the wrong way. A must read for anyone with children!

Verified Purchase 

September 29, 2024

A book mockup, tablet mockup and phone mockup of the book cover for "The Car Ride Home and Other Critical Moments in Youth Sports" by Mike Bergstrom. The cover features a collection of sports balls, including a football, soccer ball, volleyball, basketball, tennis ball, baseball, and two golf balls.

PURCHASE YOUR COPY TODAY!

The Car Ride Home is available in print, e-book, and audiobook. 

bottom of page