As a kid, I was decidedly indoors-y. But surprisingly, one of the greatest joys of my life has been watching my boys fall in love with basketball, track, and flag football. Now at 46, I’m proud to call myself a sports mom, and I’m just as obsessed with the Warriors and Nets as my kids are. Today, in partnership with Lululemon, six women share what it’s like for them to be sports parents…
Joanna Goddard, editor
Sports your kids play: Basketball, flag football, track, and fishing.
What’s surprised you the most since becoming a sports mom: I always thought football was so BORING, but omg when I watch Anton’s flag team, my heart is pounding! I was laughing to my friends about the new-to-me discovery, like ‘Have you guys ever heard of football??’
Do you ever play sports with them: We often go to the park to play basketball (Toby loves this especially) or toss the football around. Also, Anton created a strength-training regimen for the two of us at home, which is a really fun way to hang out — I like that he’s the expert!
Favorite Lululemon style to wear when playing with the kids: The high-rise jogger in navy. They have just the right amount of slouch.
Jenny Rosenstrach, food writer
Sports your kids play: My oldest daughter ran cross-country and track, and my younger daughter played soccer — both of them played from young ages through college.
What’s surprised you the most since your kids started playing sports: That all these years later, they still find joy in their respective sports. I worried they’d burn out, but they never did. The first thing my older daughter did when she graduated from college was seek out a running group in Brooklyn. Instant community.
What do you love about the sports that they play: Part of me can’t believe my girls can do these things with their bodies. Every time my soccer player would make a run down the wing or my cross country daughter would grind out a tough race, I’d think I am amazed that she can do that.
Favorite Lululemon style to wear to your daughter’s games: The Glow Up Leggings in Navy. I wear them everywhere!
Jannelle Sanchez, senior editor
Sports your kids play: We haven’t signed them up for anything yet, but we do spend afternoons kicking the soccer ball around our backyard.
Did you play sports as a kid: I played soccer and tennis. I still remember how intoxicating it felt to unlock a new skill, like mastering a quick pass on the soccer field or hitting a sharp serve on the tennis court. I want my kids to experience that same pride.
What sports do you plan on signing your kids up for: Our close friend has all her daughters in softball. She’s coaching a team this fall, and we plan on signing up our daughter Ella. I’m excited!
Favorite Lululemon style: I live in these high-rise lined shorts. They’re lightweight, airy, and feel great for runs and walks to the park.
Grace Farris, illustrator and doctor
Sports your kids play: Both my kids play soccer.
What’s surprised you about becoming a sports mom: I never liked sports growing up, but my nine-year-old son Russ has gotten me into professional soccer. If I start talking about the 2026 World Cup, my parents will be like ‘Who are you?!’ This is who I am now.
Do you play any sports now? A couple years ago, I coached an under-eight indoor soccer team. A parent asked if I had played soccer in college (!). I had to explain that I was Ted Lasso-ing the whole situation.
Advice for parents who are curious about signing their kids up for a sports league: Approach with curiosity.
Favorite Lululemon style to wear when attending sports games: I really like the fit and feel of these boatneck tops.
Liz Libré, co-founder of Lewis
Sports your kids play: My boys are individual-sports kids — skateboarding, skiing, climbing, biking, running. My daughter plays club soccer and rec basketball.
What surprised you the most since signing them up for sports: I knew my daughter would make friends, but I didn’t expect to make amazing friends myself, with the fellow parents!
What sports did you play growing up: I played team sports from a young age through college, and it’s been one of the greatest joys in my life. My mom died right before I went to college, where I had committed to play lacrosse. At first I wasn’t sure I could physically and mentally follow through because I was just so sad. But I did it, and I am certain it saved me.
Do you play any sports now: I’m running a half marathon in a few weeks (with a bunch of my soccer mom friends!) and will run the NYC Marathon again this fall.
Favorite Lululemon style to wear on long runs: I’ve worn these high-rise leggings in my last two NYC marathons. I like the easy access pockets on the sides for my phone and the back pocket is perfect for chapstick and fuel gel.
Youngna Park, writer and digital product advisor
What sports do your kids play: My kids are extremely anti-team sports, but are incredibly active. They love biking loops in Prospect Park, roller skating, and ice skating.
Why don’t they like team sports and how have you approached that: My daughter is a perfectionist, and I think she doesn’t want to let other people down. I do wish she’d try a team sport, but I’m letting her take the lead.
Do you play any sports: Tennis is my favorite. I love the combination of movement and strategy. Also, my kids became fans alongside me. We’ve been to the U.S. Open the last two years, and my daughter adores Coco Gauff.
Favorite Lululemon gear to wear when playing tennis: This high rise pleated tennis skirt, which fits really well on shorter people. I also won my singles match the first time I wore it. Dare I say it’s good luck?
A few more Lululemon styles we love…
Do your kids play sports? If yes, what have you loved about being a sports mom? If not, what hobbies do they shine in? We’d love to hear!
(This post is sponsored by Lululemon, a brand we love. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Cup of Jo.)
