Author: jpruitt

July 14, 2023 Published by

Experiencing change in any sport can be challenging. Athletes invest their time, energy, and passion into their craft, making transitional events like joining a new team, adapting to a new coach, or moving to a new environment significant moments in their athletic journey. As a coach, it is crucial to understand how these changes can affect athletes and provide the necessary support to help them navigate these transitions successfully. In this article, we will explore five essential tips for coaches to assist their athletes in coping with big changes, fostering team spirit, and creating a positive team culture.

1. Recognize and Address Mental Health for Athletes:

"Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Don't neglect it." - Michael Phelps

Transitioning to a new team or coach can impact an athlete's mental health. Like Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps suggests, it is essential to prioritize mental well-being. Encourage open communication and create a safe space for athletes to express their feelings and concerns. Pay attention to signs of anxiety or stress and provide resources for professional support if needed. By prioritizing mental well-being, coaches can help athletes thrive in the face of change.

2. Facilitate Smooth Transitions:

"Change is not always easy, but with the right support, you can adapt and excel." - Serena Williams

When athletes join a new team or adapt to a new coach, they need guidance and support to navigate the changes. Tennis superstar Serena Williams believes that with the right support, athletes can navigate change successfully. Take proactive steps to ensure a smooth transition by assigning a mentor or a buddy from the existing team to help the newcomer feel welcome and comfortable. Providing orientation sessions and familiarizing athletes with the team's dynamics and expectations can also aid in their adjustment process.

3. Emphasize Team Building and Collaboration:

"Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." - Michael Jordan

Moving to a new team or working with a new coach presents an opportunity to strengthen team connections. Basketball legend Michael Jordan highlights the importance of teamwork and collaboration. Engage athletes in team building games and activities that encourage collaboration, trust, and camaraderie. Foster an environment where athletes feel united in their pursuit of shared goals. By fostering team spirit, coaches can inspire loyalty and build a cohesive and supportive team.

4. Develop a Positive Team Culture:

"A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes." - Usain Bolt

Coaches play a pivotal role in shaping team culture. Sprinting sensation Usain Bolt emphasizes the power of a positive attitude. Encourage a positive and inclusive environment by setting clear expectations, fostering open communication, and valuing each athlete's contribution. Promote a growth mindset, where mistakes are seen as opportunities for learning and improvement. A strong team culture helps athletes feel supported and motivated during times of change.

5. Support Stress Management for Athletes:

"I learned that the greatest progress is made when I push through moments of discomfort." - Simone Biles

Change often brings added stress to athletes. Gymnastics icon Simone Biles believes in pushing through moments of discomfort for personal growth. Teach stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, visualization, or mindfulness. Encourage athletes to maintain a balanced lifestyle by emphasizing the importance of rest, nutrition, and self-care. By providing athletes with tools to manage stress, coaches empower them to perform at their best despite the challenges of change.

Managing big changes in sports requires a thoughtful and supportive approach from coaches. By recognizing the impact of change on athletes' mental health, facilitating smooth transitions, fostering team spirit, and promoting a positive team culture, coaches can help athletes cope effectively with transitions. By prioritizing the well-being and growth of athletes, coaches can cultivate an environment that breeds success, loyalty, and resilience. Remember, the most successful coaches are those who empower their athletes to thrive in the face of change and create a lasting legacy of achievement.

Getting to the Pros

July 7, 2023 Published by

Welcome to our new SFL Spotlight feature.  This is a series where we interview athletes whose lives are fueled by sports.  Some are professionals.  Some are not.  All are passionate about their performance, their potential, and their passion to learn, compete, and win.

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One of baseball’s future stars, Sammy Infante, a 22-year-old infielder with the Washington Nationals, answered our questions about his career and what fuels him.  First, a little background: Sammy was drafted #71 in 2020 and played for the Fredericksburg Nationals.  Born in southern Florida with a family from the Dominican Republic, he can play second and third base.  Here’s what he had to say about this exciting time in his professional career.

 

1. When did you discover your passion for sport?
“I discovered my passion for sports, and baseball in particular, when my dad took me to the park for the very first time.  The way we bonded over that experience elevated my passion for baseball.”

 

2. Who are your sports heroes that inspire you to pursue excellence?
“I’d say Boston Red Sox’s David Ortiz, particularly the way he went about his work every day and treated everyone with love and respect.”

 

3. What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever been given?  Who gave you this advice and what did it mean to you at the time you received it?  

“The best advice I have ever received was, “If you don’t like your current situation, play towards the situation you want to see yourself in.  I received this advice from Derek Hill, he is in AAA with the Nationals.  He gave me this advice during a difficult time in 2023 Spring Training.  It really resonated with me.”

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4. What mental tools do you use when you’re under pressure on and off the field?
“In my opinion, pressure is a false image brought upon someone from an outside perspective.  If I take care of myself the way I’m supposed to--practicing, watching team film, or going to the medical room--I know I will be fine.”

 

5. Do you have advice for younger athletes pursuing their dreams?
“Being an athlete isn't an easy thing to do.  It takes sacrifice and dedication.  Make sure you love whatever sport you choose; down the road there is gonna be traffic.  To get through those hard times you have to love it.”

 

6. Do you have any pregame rituals that you use to calm yourself for your next competition, and if so, what are they?
“I do.  I have to enter into a certain head space before a game.  The easiest way to get there is by isolating myself for a little while and using my headphones to get locked in.”

 

7. What are some of your goals for after you are done participating in your sport?
“After my sports career, I’m mainly looking forward to starting my family.  Sports will no longer be my #1 objective in life, it’ll be my family.”

 

8. Who or what is your biggest motivation to keep going in your sport and in your life?
“My main motivation that keeps me going is knowing I have a family that depends on me—parents I want to provide for.”

 

9. What fuels you?
“What really fuels me is how hard my dad worked to provide for my 4 sisters and myself.”

 

10. What impact do you hope to have on your sport?
“I just want to inspire as many people as I can to watch and play the game I love, specifically playing the game the right and respectful way.”

 

We encourage you to follow along on this new series with more guests who share insights on their careers.  Feel free to follow us on our social accounts and become a member on our website to stay up to date with all that Sport Fuels Life has to offer!

3 Calming Meditation Techniques To Try Before The Big Game

June 29, 2023 Published by
Athletes often face immense pressure and performance anxiety before a big game or competition. While physical training is crucial, mental health and focus play a vital role in achieving peak performance. Incorporating calming meditation techniques into their routine can greatly benefit athletes by promoting mindfulness, reducing stress, and enhancing mental preparation.
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In this article, we will explore three effective meditation techniques that athletes can try before the big game to optimize their mental performance and overall well-being.

  1. Mindfulness Meditation: Cultivating Present-Moment Awareness

Mindfulness meditation is a powerful technique that helps athletes develop present-moment awareness and mental clarity. By focusing their attention on the present rather than dwelling on past performances or worrying about future outcomes, athletes can better manage performance anxiety and improve their mental focus during the game.

To practice mindfulness meditation, find a quiet space and sit comfortably. Close your eyes and bring your attention to your breath, feeling the sensation of each inhalation and exhalation. As thoughts arise, acknowledge them without judgment and gently return your focus to the breath. Start with short sessions of 5-10 minutes and gradually increase the duration as you progress.

The benefits of mindfulness meditation extend beyond the sports arena. As LeBron James, the NBA superstar, once said, "Meditation is me-time. It's a chance for me to reflect on what I've done and what's ahead." By embracing mindfulness, athletes can cultivate a calm and focused mindset that positively impacts their mental health and performance.

Kerri Walsh Jennings, three-time beach volleyball Olympic champion, uses mindfulness meditation by focusing on her breath.  She also uses gratitude mediation to think about three things she is grateful for every morning.


  1. Visualization Techniques: Harnessing the Power of Imagination

Visualization is a potent tool used by many successful athletes to enhance their performance. By vividly imagining themselves executing flawless movements, achieving their goals, and succeeding in the game, athletes can enhance their confidence and create a mental blueprint for success.

Before the big game, find a quiet space and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths to relax your body and mind. Visualize yourself performing at your best, feeling the adrenaline, and experiencing the joy of success. Engage all your senses to make the visualization more vivid and compelling. See yourself making accurate shots, hear the cheering crowd, and feel the exhilaration of victory.

Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian in history, utilized visualization extensively. He once said, "I visualized each morning and night. Visualization helped me prepare my mind and body for the race ahead." By incorporating visualization techniques into your pre-game routine, you can optimize your mental preparation, boost confidence, and improve sports performance.


  1. Guided Meditation: Nurturing Inner Peace and Relaxation


Guided meditation is an excellent technique for athletes seeking relaxation, stress management, and mental rejuvenation. By listening to a guided meditation session, athletes can follow the soothing voice and instructions to achieve deep relaxation and release tension from their body and mind.

Find a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down. Use headphones if available, and choose a guided meditation specifically designed for athletes or relaxation. Let the soothing voice guide you through deep breathing exercises, body scans, and positive affirmations. Allow yourself to let go of any worries or distractions, and embrace a state of calmness and tranquility.

Novak Djokovic, the tennis champion, has emphasized the significance of guided meditation in his life. He stated, "Meditation has brought me calmness and clarity, both on and off the court." By incorporating guided meditation into their routine, athletes can enhance their mental well-being, reduce stress, and perform at their peak during crucial moments.

In the world of sports, mental health and performance are intricately connected. Athletes who prioritize their mental well-being and incorporate meditation techniques into their routine gain a competitive edge by reducing performance anxiety, enhancing focus, and promoting overall wellness.

By practicing mindfulness meditation, athletes can develop present-moment awareness and combat negative thoughts. Visualization techniques allow them to create a mental blueprint for success, boosting confidence and motivation. Guided meditation provides relaxation, stress management, and a profound sense of inner peace.

As athletes like LeBron James and Michael Phelps have publicly discussed, mental health, wellness, and mindfulness are vital components of success. By embracing these techniques and nurturing their mental well-being, athletes can optimize their performance and achieve their goals, both on and off the field.

So, before the big game, take a few moments to calm your mind, visualize success, and find inner peace through meditation. Your mental health and performance will thank you for it.

Ready to join a vibrant community of coaches and athletes dedicated to supporting each other's growth? Become a part of Sport Fuels Life and gain access to valuable resources and exclusive custom merchandise. Elevate your performance, connect with like-minded individuals, and unleash your true potential. Join our community today and embark on your journey towards greatness.

Rest AND Recovery are Important for Athletes

June 21, 2023 Published by

When athletes are interviewed, they are often asked about their training regimens and lauded for their commitment to fitness, preparation, and competition. They are almost never asked about their commitment to rest and how they plan to recover from a grueling game or demanding season.

 

While dedication, training, and skill development are crucial aspects of athletic success, the importance of rest and recovery, especially for young athletes, is key. In this article, we will explore why allowing time to recover properly is essential and how it can help athletes achieve their long-term athletic goals.

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The Mental and Physical Demands of Sports:

 

Competitive sports place immense physical and mental demands on athletes. The pressure to perform at their best, meet team goals, and live up to expectations can lead to heightened stress levels. Additionally, the risk of injury looms over every athlete, potentially derailing their progress and aspirations. It’s particularly important to emphasize rest and recovery when athletes are young so good habits are established early as part of a comprehensive training regimen.   

 

The Role of Rest and Recovery

 

Dr. Karin VanBaak of Colorado University’s Sports Medicine & Performance Center noted that if you’re participating in sports, the reality is that you’re breaking down your body.  She said,  “Exercise—especially intense exercise—creates tiny tears in muscles. Over time, as muscles heal, they eventually grow bigger and stronger.  It’s important to remember that this process occurs during rest and recovery, not during the exercise session itself.”

Here are additional key points to consider:

 

  1. Injury Prevention and Recovery: Regular rest and recovery periods allow the body to repair and rebuild muscles, joints, and connective tissues, reducing the risk of athlete injuries.
     
  1. Mental Rejuvenation: The intense pressure and demanding schedules can take a toll on an athlete's mental well-being. Rest provides an opportunity to recharge, rejuvenate, and reset. Dr. Carlin Anderson, a sports psychologist and Director of Sport Psychology services for the University of Minnesota, emphasizes, "Rest and recovery are vital for maintaining optimal mental health, reducing stress, and enhancing focus and concentration."
     
  2. Performance Enhancement: Athletes who prioritize rest and recovery experience improved performance on the field. True athlete endurance and recovery come from balancing hard work with adequate rest. Allowing the body time to recover helps prevent fatigue, enhances energy levels, and boosts overall performance.
     
  3. The Importance of Total Rest vs. Active Recovery:

It’s also essential to differentiate between total rest and active recovery. While total rest involves complete physical and mental relaxation, active recovery focuses on engaging in low-intensity activities that promote blood flow and aid in the recovery process. Both forms of recovery have their benefits and should be incorporated strategically into an athlete's training routine.

Best Practices for Rest and Recovery:

 

To optimize rest and recovery, athletes and coaches can implement the following practices:

 

  1. Sleep: Prioritize quality sleep to allow the body to repair and rejuvenate itself. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.

  2. Nutrition: Fuel the body with a balanced diet rich in nutrients and hydration. Proper nutrition aids in muscle repair and replenishes energy stores.

  3. Active Recovery: Incorporate low-intensity activities such as yoga, swimming, or light stretching on rest days. These activities promote blood flow and facilitate recovery.

  4. Recovery Tools and Methods: Utilize various recovery tools like foam rollers, massage balls, meditation, ice therapy, and breath work.


Rest and recovery isn’t about being lazy.  It’s about being smart and protecting your body. Seep, nutrition, and adequate water are essential especially for young athletes.

 

Let us know what rest and recovery mechanisms work best for you or your teams.  We’ll then share with our broader Sport Fuels Life community.

 

To stay updated on the latest insights and join a community of like-minded individuals passionate about athletics, we invite you to become a part of our Sport Fuels Life community. Join us today and unlock your true potential!

Every Winning Team Uses These 4 Core Values

June 6, 2023 Published by
Athletes often face immense pressure and performance anxiety before a big game or competition. While physical training is crucial, mental health and focus play a vital role in achieving peak performance. Incorporating calming meditation techniques into their routine can greatly benefit athletes by promoting mindfulness, reducing stress, and enhancing mental preparation.
Image

In this article, we will explore three effective meditation techniques that athletes can try before the big game to optimize their mental performance and overall well-being.

  1. Mindfulness Meditation: Cultivating Present-Moment Awareness

Mindfulness meditation is a powerful technique that helps athletes develop present-moment awareness and mental clarity. By focusing their attention on the present rather than dwelling on past performances or worrying about future outcomes, athletes can better manage performance anxiety and improve their mental focus during the game.

To practice mindfulness meditation, find a quiet space and sit comfortably. Close your eyes and bring your attention to your breath, feeling the sensation of each inhalation and exhalation. As thoughts arise, acknowledge them without judgment and gently return your focus to the breath. Start with short sessions of 5-10 minutes and gradually increase the duration as you progress.

The benefits of mindfulness meditation extend beyond the sports arena. As LeBron James, the NBA superstar, once said, "Meditation is me-time. It's a chance for me to reflect on what I've done and what's ahead." By embracing mindfulness, athletes can cultivate a calm and focused mindset that positively impacts their mental health and performance.

Kerri Walsh Jennings, three-time beach volleyball Olympic champion, uses mindfulness meditation by focusing on her breath.  She also uses gratitude mediation to think about three things she is grateful for every morning.


  1. Visualization Techniques: Harnessing the Power of Imagination

Visualization is a potent tool used by many successful athletes to enhance their performance. By vividly imagining themselves executing flawless movements, achieving their goals, and succeeding in the game, athletes can enhance their confidence and create a mental blueprint for success.

Before the big game, find a quiet space and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths to relax your body and mind. Visualize yourself performing at your best, feeling the adrenaline, and experiencing the joy of success. Engage all your senses to make the visualization more vivid and compelling. See yourself making accurate shots, hear the cheering crowd, and feel the exhilaration of victory.

Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian in history, utilized visualization extensively. He once said, "I visualized each morning and night. Visualization helped me prepare my mind and body for the race ahead." By incorporating visualization techniques into your pre-game routine, you can optimize your mental preparation, boost confidence, and improve sports performance.


  1. Guided Meditation: Nurturing Inner Peace and Relaxation


Guided meditation is an excellent technique for athletes seeking relaxation, stress management, and mental rejuvenation. By listening to a guided meditation session, athletes can follow the soothing voice and instructions to achieve deep relaxation and release tension from their body and mind.

Find a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down. Use headphones if available, and choose a guided meditation specifically designed for athletes or relaxation. Let the soothing voice guide you through deep breathing exercises, body scans, and positive affirmations. Allow yourself to let go of any worries or distractions, and embrace a state of calmness and tranquility.

Novak Djokovic, the tennis champion, has emphasized the significance of guided meditation in his life. He stated, "Meditation has brought me calmness and clarity, both on and off the court." By incorporating guided meditation into their routine, athletes can enhance their mental well-being, reduce stress, and perform at their peak during crucial moments.

In the world of sports, mental health and performance are intricately connected. Athletes who prioritize their mental well-being and incorporate meditation techniques into their routine gain a competitive edge by reducing performance anxiety, enhancing focus, and promoting overall wellness.

By practicing mindfulness meditation, athletes can develop present-moment awareness and combat negative thoughts. Visualization techniques allow them to create a mental blueprint for success, boosting confidence and motivation. Guided meditation provides relaxation, stress management, and a profound sense of inner peace.

As athletes like LeBron James and Michael Phelps have publicly discussed, mental health, wellness, and mindfulness are vital components of success. By embracing these techniques and nurturing their mental well-being, athletes can optimize their performance and achieve their goals, both on and off the field.

So, before the big game, take a few moments to calm your mind, visualize success, and find inner peace through meditation. Your mental health and performance will thank you for it.

Ready to join a vibrant community of coaches and athletes dedicated to supporting each other's growth? Become a part of Sport Fuels Life and gain access to valuable resources and exclusive custom merchandise. Elevate your performance, connect with like-minded individuals, and unleash your true potential. Join our community today and embark on your journey towards greatness.

8 Life Lessons That Only Losing in Sports Can Teach You

March 24, 2023 Published by

When it comes to losing in sports, finding a silver lining isn’t always easy … no matter your age! Part of coaching youth sports is helping your players see beyond the curve balls — both on the field and off. From learning self-discipline and steadfast practice techniques to overcoming adversity, the youth sports journey offers its share of challenges. But those challenges are also an opportunity for growth. Here are eight character-building life lessons that can be instilled through youth sports.

8 Life Lessons That Only Losing in Sports Can Teach You

  1. Camaraderie

“​​The best teams have chemistry. They communicate with each other, and they sacrifice personal glory for a common goal.  — Dave DeBusschere, Professional Basketball Player

Cliché though it may be, teamwork truly does make the dream work. Friendship, respect, and trust are a solid foundation for team unity, which pays dividends — particularly during a losing streak when players need extra support and encouragement. But youth sports isn’t the only platform where teamwork offers benefits. Nurturing collaboration and cultivating empathy has a place in life’s bigger picture, too. It fosters clear communication, constructive criticism, and a consideration of others that will continue into adulthood, on both personal and professional levels.  

  1. Coping skills 

 “I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life, and that is why I succeed. 

— Michael Jordan

To fail bravely and lose gracefully are unparalleled life lessons. They can also be learned behaviors that require some practice. While there’s no “one size fits all” approach to processing a loss, coaches have a unique opportunity to continually teach and reinforce practical coping skills. Lessons such as helping to manage anger, positively redirecting negative energy, and modeling appropriate behavior are huge influences in life’s bigger picture. 

  1. Mental toughness

“Difficulties in life are intended to make us better, not bitter.”

— Dan Reeves, Former NFL Athlete and Head Coach

Adversity promotes resilience. Navigating the range of emotions following a loss can be tricky, but strong mental toughness for young athletes equals a more well-rounded player who rises above hardship and pressure. A winning mindset revolves around the 4 Cs of mental toughness: control, commitment, challenge, and confidence. Developing and implementing healthy habits to support these behaviors early on means they will be second nature by the time adulthood is on the horizon!

  1. Winning isn’t Everything

“Do you know what my favorite part of the game is? The opportunity to play.” –Mike Singletary, American Football Coach

It’s often said that winning isn’t everything; it’s how you play the game. Truer words were never spoken. Being competitive certainly has its merits, so long as there’s more to it than the act of winning. Because, as we all know, no amount of preparation or effort leads to winning every single game or contest. Reframing a loss to be seen as a stepping stone on the path to success means children learn to appreciate the journey — the backbone of leading a more fulfilled life. 

  1. Discipline

“The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.” – Vince Lombardi, American Football Coach

Discipline is the highest form of self-love. Devoting ample time to practice, eating healthy and consistent meals, maintaining a fitness routine, and getting proper sleep, are only a few of the critical elements in youth sports training. Case in point, the “Tom Brady Self-Discipline method” (he is notoriously regimented with his time-management) makes it clear that the process of self-motivating and developing a strong work ethic makes for a far more successful career that maintains momentum … no matter what that career might be.

  1. Confidence 

“I am the greatest. I said that before I knew I was.” — Muhammad Ali, American Professional Boxer

Reaching one’s potential requires commitment, grit, and a rather large dose of conviction. But confidence based solely on success makes a loss all the more devastating. When children develop healthy self-esteem at a young age, they take it with them into adulthood, seeing themselves as capable and a valuable asset. 

  1. Playing fair

“Win or lose, do it fairly.”  — Knute Rockne, American Football Coach

Being invested in fair play is a vital building block of team spirit. Respect for rules, as well as placing an importance on integrity and solidarity, are essential in competition. Explaining rules and expectations, and praising your team for following them, emphasizes the importance of setting and adhering to appropriate boundaries.

  1. Good sportsmanship

“If you win through bad sportsmanship, that’s no real victory.” — Babe Didrikson Zaharia, Olympic Gold Medalist in Track & Field, best known for winning 82 golf tournaments and founding the Ladies Pro Golf Association.

Good sportsmanship isn’t necessarily the easiest concept to explain, but it’s not hard to recognize someone who doesn’t abide by it. It’s all a matter of principles. Respecting opponents and fellow teammates, remaining humble after a win, taking ownership of mistakes and losses, and staying committed to the game and team are crucial in youth sports and beyond. 

You Either Win or You Learn

February 16, 2023 Published by

Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts gave a master class in inspiration, perseverance, and critical thinking  shortly after his Super Bowl loss Sunday.  “You either win or you learn,” he told reporters. “That’s how I feel. You either win or you learn. Win, lose, or draw, I always reflect on the things I could have done better, things we could have done better, to try and take that next step. That will be the same process that goes on now.”

Those six words reminded us of some other powerful insights featured here by two coaches/authors who are also motivators and leaders.  Let us know what rings true for you in your own super-sized athletic challenges.

How To Activate The Power of Failure In Your Athletes
How To Build A Confident Athlete
Setting Good Habits That Lead To Greater Productivity with Coach Heather Macy

Mental Skills Matter

February 10, 2023 Published by

Whether it’s this week’s Super Bowl or a game at our local school, we are often amazed by the edge that distinguishes winners from losers.  The conditioning is the same.  The physicality is the same.  The difference maker is often mental strength.  Given the importance of this topic and the need for open conversation about it, we wanted to share three podcasts that are particularly relevant.  We hope they’re helpful and welcome your thoughts on training for mental toughness.

Mental skills make the difference – Zach Brandon

How to control your competitive performance by controlling your mindset – Tri Bourne

Transform your mind and body with the healing power of the outdoors

Best of 2022  

December 29, 2022 Published by

With appreciation for your support of Sport Fuels Life in 2022 and anticipation of more excitement in 2023, we have selected some of our top interviews, podcasts, and features of the year.  Keep your ideas, stories, and suggestions coming so we can help each other.  Happy New Year!

Christopher Clarey

New York Times tennis correspondent Christopher Clarey, author of, The MASTER: The Long Run and Beautiful Game of Roger Federer, shared highlights from Federer’s life and career.  He explains how Federer could “hurt you from anywhere on the court,” and how “he has shown the world for more than 20 years that it is possible to win and lose with class and to treat the people who cross your path with respect and empathy,” and much more.

Christopher Clarey:  NYT Reporting Ace and Author Discusses Tennis Ace Roger Federer

Siri Lindley 

Siri Lindley, world champion triathlete, coach to the elites, television sports analyst, popular speaker and author highlights overcoming anxiety in many areas. These include entering a triathlon despite not knowing how to swim, coming out to her father, and finding her true passion in coaching. She embraces a life-changing quote, “where your focus goes, your energy flows.”

Siri Lindley – Finding and Reinventing One’s Champion Self

Sean Swarner

Sean Swarner’s story is one of healing, hope, and triumph. With only one functioning lung, a prognosis of fourteen days to live, and being in a medically induced coma for a year, Sean Swarner is the first cancer survivor to stand on top of the world…Mt. Everest. In so doing, he’s redefined the way the world views success.

Sean Swarner Redefines the Impossible

Zach Brandon


Zach Brandon, mental skills coordinator for the Arizona Diamondbacks, understands how perfecting one’s game and realizing peak performance in athletics requires both physical ability and mental strength. This mental performance expert shares how working through challenges to find the fun and joy is all part of the growth process for professional baseball and for life.  

Mental Skills Make the Difference

Kate Leavell

Successful NCAA lacrosse coach, author, and speaker Kate Leavell knows what it takes—as a coach, parent of an athlete, and leadership expert—to embody positivity, communicate openly, and embrace diversity.  She demonstrates these concepts in actionable ways in her new book, Superpower:  An Inspiring Story to Overcome Self-Doubt and Unleash Your Authentic Greatness, a fable for any age.  

Unleashing Superpowers with Coach, Author, and Speaker Kate Leavell

Khadevis Robinson

One of the most accomplished middle-distance runners in USA track and field history, Olympian Khadevis Robinson believes we all want “to go for the gold” in our lives. He discusses how a change in mindset and a more balanced life creates amazing moments. Be ready to be inspired with his contagious energy, positivity, and reminder that “major things happen in minor moments.”

Addressing the Inner Olympian in All of Us

Scott Doerner

Scott Doerner discusses his varied championship (playing and coaching) tennis career and how a winning team culture helped fuel a national championship. Turns out, those principles still apply.  He also reminds us that “when the margins are so thin in our sport, everything matters.”

How Failing and Learning from Failure are Important Steps to Winning

Nathalie Elliott

Nathalie Elliott shares insights from her journey as student-athlete to High Point University’s athletic trainer for cross country and track and field. During her Division I athletic career of five years, Nathalie earned multiple honors as a conference champion and regional qualifier  in the women’s pole vault while completing her Master’s degree in Athletic Training. 

Leveraging the Power of Athletics for Life

Bryson Langford

One of the tenets of Sport Fuels Life is to “play it forward.” We encourage initiatives that support the positivity and potential of athletics. Earlier this year, we were delighted to supply tee shirts to Second Serve, a youth-run, non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of underprivileged kids who love tennis. Tennis standout and National Director of Volunteer Services for Second Serve Bryson Langford spearheaded this contribution.

Playing it Forward with Second Serve

Coaching the Coach Part 2

December 22, 2022 Published by

Your ideas keep coming and they are fantastic. This is the next installment of our feature on Coaches Helping Coaches.  Keep sharing and keep believing.

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Advice for New Coaches

 

  • Keep encouraging students every day to be their best. Ask parents for help- food/banquet organization- many love helping! Thank parents for their efforts– they have given a lot for their athletes to be where they are.
  • Comparison is the thief of joy. Stay present in this moment with the team in front of you.
  • Follow through always. Be a student to your sport, and always remember your why. The athletes are always the priority. If they enjoy what they do, then they care. When they care, they perform their best.
  • Believe in your worth and see the growth of your players. That’s the reward that nobody can take away.
  • Support students in areas outside of your sport. If students are also in activities, work really hard to create an environment that supports success and dedication in all areas.
  • Put in the time. It pays off. It’s hard work but worth it. You may not reach them all, but if one life is bettered, you’ve made a difference. That’s why we do what we do.
  • Never stop learning! There’s always going to be something new–new coaching theories, new ways to teach a skill, new technology to enhance your coaching. Keep what works great for you, but don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try out something new.
  • The best advice I have for younger coaches is to choose the thing that you do very well and do that to the absolute best of your ability. If you are best in building community…do that to the best of your ability; if it is develop strategies…do that to the best of your ability. That one thing, whatever it may be, is what will set you aside from everyone else.
  • Build a family type of atmosphere where kids feel as one–welcomed, cared for, positive influence, pushed to do and be their best.  Then great things will come your way as a team/program. Some of the best Championship teams were not because they were the most talented but the way they loved and pushed each other like family.
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New Coaching Challenges

 

  • Not really a new challenge but parents and crowd members are a consistent challenge for coaches. The way that some fans behave at the game is so far from showing sportsmanship that it’s sad. I’ve also noticed a rise in the number of parents that want to “coach” their kids from the stands. It’s disheartening to see how many student athletes are affected by or even quit their sports because of this; all they want from their parents is encouragement.
  • Social media and the fact that everything is recorded. Coaching decisions are constantly being second guessed, especially if you lose a game.  Kids also want immediate results.  They struggle with understanding that results take time
  • I’ve been coaching for 38 years. In my early years, I found players to be tougher skinned than the players I coach today. I’ve had to change my ways to accommodate these personalities. 
  • I’ve been coaching for 20+ years now, and I see a lot more of “Me” instead of “We”, and a lot less commitment to their teammates. Athletes are so committed to their social media followings of people they don’t know that they neglect their teammates who are actually in front of their face. I sometimes have to take our athletes’ cell phones during practice and lock them in a box to keep them off their phones. It’s crazy.
  • Getting kids to be willing to care about others more than themselves when playing the game. Getting them motivated to push each other in a positive manner rather than ridicule each other for mistakes that happen during a game.

 

 

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Leadership Development Exercises

 

  • I think that having student-athletes contribute back to the community that supports them is huge. My philosophy follows the motto “On the Mat. Off The Mat.” I want these young men and women to be able to be positive leaders in more ways than in the wrestling room. So, we have weekly challenges:  one week may be to make sure that you thank someone for something that they normally would not call out, another is to do something for their guardians without being asked or do something nice for someone in school that you don’t know. They then have to report back to the team about what they are learning in the process.
  • Challenge up. With cheer it might be easier than with other sports but give the athletes a chance to challenge for a desired spot in the front row. The challenger chooses a person that is in their desired position. The two athletes compete against each other in a skill for that position and the winner gets that spot during the following event. It keeps the veteran athlete on their toes, so they don’t assume they have a spot just because they did the previous time, and the younger athlete has a goal. For both, it also teaches good sportsmanship. We only do this once per week (usually on Mondays) and IF an athlete loses their front row position, they can challenge for it the following week.

One of the activities that I have done with teams is to have them create a list of 10 things good teams do. They break off into pairs and regroup every two minutes until as a team they have completed their top 10 list. From that top 10 list, they must separate into two categories: what they already do well and what they need to work on. From the list of things, they need to work on, each player chooses one statement that they will personally address. Then, they must each come up with one related thing that they can do in that practice/game/week to improve.

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