The "Helicopter" Parent and College Athletic Disappointment

Abstract

This case focuses on relational communication in sport and involves a “helicopter” parent, Alicia, who hovers over her son and pressures him to be a successful basketball player from high school to college at State University. In college, Alicia’s son, Esteban, struggles to adjust to the “Old School coach,” Mr. Foothead, who reduces Esteban’s minutes on the court. Eventually, Esteban walks off the team after not playing in an important game against State University’s rival, Premier College. Now, both Esteban and Alicia must decide what is next.