🎉 Announcing the 4th Edition of The Car Ride Home: A Fresh Look at Youth Sports Parenting
- Mike Bergstrom
- Aug 31
- 3 min read
When I first wrote The Car Ride Home, the title was meant to capture one of the most emotionally charged and often overlooked moments in youth sports: the quiet drive home after a game. But as the book evolved, so did its reach. It’s never been just about the car ride. It’s about all the moments that shape a child’s experience in sports, from the sideline to the locker room, from the bleachers to the dinner table.
That’s why the 4th edition comes with a new subtitle: And Other Critical Moments in Youth Sports. Because this book is about much more than post-game conversations. It’s about perspective, encouragement, and the role we play as parents, coaches, and supporters in helping kids grow through sports, not just perform.
Here’s the stat that drives everything I’ve written: 70% of kids quit youth sports by the age of 13. That’s not just a number, it’s a signal that something’s broken. My dream is to help change that.
📘 What’s New in the 2025 Edition?
This edition isn’t a complete overhaul—it’s a thoughtful refinement. Here’s what’s been updated:
A revised chapter on technology and social media, reflecting how digital culture now shapes youth sports in real time
Modernized names and language throughout, to better reflect today’s families and teams
Heavily edited Core Common Beliefs for clarity and impact—still the same foundation, now sharper and more accessible
Improved formatting for easier reading in both print and ebook formats
There aren’t new stories in this edition but the ones that remain have been polished to better reflect the message and tone I’ve always aimed for.
💡 Why This Edition Matters in Youth Sports Parenting
Youth sports continue to evolve, and so do the pressures kids face. But the heart of this book hasn’t changed: encouragement still matters most. Whether you’re a parent, coach, or grandparent, The Car Ride Home is a reminder that how we show up, especially in the quiet moments, can shape a child’s confidence, resilience, and love for the game.
🙌 Who It's For
Parents of young athletes
Coaches looking to build a positive team culture
Grandparents, mentors, and anyone who cheers from the sidelines
Readers of previous editions who want a refreshed, more inclusive version
Wheather you're new to youth sports parenting or have years of experience on the sidelines, this book offers fresh perspective and practical support.
📬 Stay Connected
If the book resonates with you, I’d love to keep the conversation going. I send out a short, thoughtful newsletter with fresh insights, stories, and practical tips for sports parents.
It’s free, and I promise not to flood your inbox
🛒 Where to Get it
The 4th edition of The Car Ride Home is available now in print and ebook formats.
Whether it’s your first time reading or your fourth, thank you for being part of this journey.
❤️ Final Thoughts
They won’t be kids for long. And you can’t get this time back. So let’s cheer, encourage, and support!
If we want to change that 70% dropout rate, it starts with us. One parent at a time. One game at a time. One car ride at a time.
Comments