Confidence and Pressure
How Do I Handle Trash Talk From an Opponent?
Rhema Adelaja · National Champion & 4x DUX
You cannot control what an opponent says, but you can control your play and your response. Do not trade insults. Bring your focus back to the next action. If the talk turns abusive, tell your coach, a parent or the referee, and let them handle it.
The answer
- Sort what you control from what you do not. You cannot control what an opponent says. You can control your own play and how you respond.
- Do not answer with more trash talk. Trading insults pulls your focus away from the game.
- Bring your attention back to the next action. Pressure is a focus problem, not a character problem (RL-VB-0010).
- If it keeps going, think about the things you can control and keep doing them.
- If an opponent is being verbally abusive, tell a parent, a coach or a referee. Asking for support is part of leadership (RL-VB-0013).
- If you are a teammate or parent watching, take it to the coach so they can tell the officials.
For information only. This is general information for student-athletes, not medical, legal, financial or professional advice. Talk to a qualified professional about your own situation. Terms
Rules and amounts change. Check the official source before you act. Last checked: 17 October 2026.