YOU’VE GOT QUESTIONS, WE’VE GOT ANSWERS

Frequently

Asked

Questions

FOR

ATHLETES,

PARENTS &

COACHES

parent checklist:

Is My Athlete Ready for Mental Performance Training?

Mental performance training is most effective when an athlete is open to learning and growth. Your athlete may be ready if several of the following apply:

☐ They want to improve and get better at their sport

☐ They care about their performance and development

☐ They are open to learning new skills or strategies

☐ They are willing to reflect on their performances

Mindset & Motivation:


☐ They struggle to perform as well in games as they do in practice.

☐ They feel nerves, anxiety, or pressure before or during competition.

☐ They have trouble bouncing back after mistakes.

☐ They show inconsistency despite solid physical preparation.

Performance & Competition:


☐ They are moving to a higher level of competition

☐ They are returning from injury or time away from sport

☐ They are adjusting to new expectations, roles, or pressure

☐ They want tools to handle challenges more independently

Development & Transitions:


☐ Confidence seems to fluctuate based on recent performances

☐ They become frustrated, overwhelmed, or emotionally reactive

☐ They have trouble staying focused for an entire competition

☐ They are hard on themselves or use negative self-talk

Emotional & Mental Skills:


Important Note for Parents:

Mental Performance Training works best when the athlete has some level of buy-in. Parents don’t need their athlete to be “struggling” to benefit—just willing to engage. Even checking a few of these boxes can indicate that mental training may be helpful.

If you’re unsure, an initial consultation can help determine whether mental performance training is a good fit for your athlete right now.

coach checklist:

IS This Athlete Ready for Mental Performance Training?

Mental Performance Training works best when it supports coaching objectives and helps athletes apply their physical and technical training under pressure. An athlete may be ready if several of the following are present:

☐ The athlete is receptive to feedback and instruction

☐ They are willing to learn and apply new strategies

☐ They take responsibility for their preparation and performance

☐ They show effort and intent in practice

COACHABILITY & ENGAGEMENT:


☐ The athlete performs well in training but inconsistently in competition

☐ Pressure appears to impact decision-making or execution

☐ They hesitate, overthink, or play “not to lose” in games

☐ Their competitive performance does not reflect their ability

PRACTICE VS Competition:


☐ Mistakes lead to visible frustration or loss of focus

☐ Confidence drops after errors, setbacks, or criticism

☐ Emotional reactions disrupt performance or team roles

☐ They struggle to reset during competition

RESPONSE TO ADVERSITY:


☐ Attention drifts during key moments

☐ They struggle to stay present after calls, mistakes, or momentum shifts

☐ Pre-game nerves or in-game stress affect execution

☐ They lack consistent routines before or during competition

FOCUS & GAME MANAGEMENT:


☐ The athlete is moving to a higher competitive level

☐ They are stepping into a new role or leadership position

☐ They are returning from injury or reduced playing time

☐ Expectations and pressure have increased

DEVELOPMENTAL TRANSITIONS:


How Mental Performance Training Supports Coaches:

Mental Performance Consultation does not replace coaching—it reinforces it. The goal is to help athletes:

  • Apply coaching instruction more consistently

  • Handle pressure without disrupting team systems

  • Respond to feedback with composure

  • Compete with confidence and clarity

When athletes are mentally prepared, they are often more focused, resilient, and coachable—especially in high-pressure environments. If there’s uncertainty, an initial consultation can help determine whether mental performance training aligns with the athlete’s needs and the team’s goals.