Need a little help here. Kid is in 8th grade - so about 14 months away from trying out for his HS team. But I fear he has lost his motivation. He is on a new spring/summer team this year. He'll go to the pitching/catching practices without complaining. But I cannot get him to do any extra work on the side. Coaches give him drills and things to work on, but he doesn't do it. I have offered to take him to hit a day or two each weak, but he doesn't want to. He would rather spend time on x box, x box and more x box (or you tube on how to pay x box).
I think adjusting to a new team might be a factor. Also, basketball is in full swing -- he thinks he is going to be an NBA star (not likely - probably won't make HS team). But, if he has a chance to compete in HS athletics, it will be on the baseball field. I don't want him to make the same mistakes I made.
So where is the line between pushing too hard and letting him make is own decisions? Do I just put my foot down and say this is what you're doing and you'll thank me later? Is this just part of "that age?" Thanks in advance.
He might not understand but make him realize how much he would/will regret not trying to better himself as an athlete and not making the high school baseball and/or basketball team with all his buddies. He just needs a little boost from you. Xbox is fun at the time but playing xbox instead of bettering himself in someway sports, academics, relationships, etc isn't going to provide any value at all for him as a person in life.