- Coachability means being open to learning, willing to adjust, and eager to improve. - It doesn’t mean you’re perfect—it means you’re ready to listen, reflect, and apply what you learn. - Great athletes aren’t just physically talented—they’re also teachable.

Why a Pregame Routine? A routine is your secret weapon. It calms nerves, builds confidence, and helps you play your best. When the game feels unpredictable, your routine keeps you steady. Parents - A pregame routine is more than superstition—it’s a proven mental skill. It creates consistency, reduces stress, and boosts confidence. When teens know exactly how they’ll prepare, they walk onto the court focused and ready. Similarities Between Games and Tests - Both bring pressure: nerves, fear of failure, distractions. - Both require focus: you can’t afford to get flustered. - Both benefit from consistency: the more you practice a routine, the calmer and more confident you feel.

- “Your brain can’t fully tell the difference between something vividly imagined and something actually experienced.” - “When you visualize, you’re strengthening the same neural pathways you use in real competition.” “It’s like practicing twice—the physical and the mental.”

Journaling for Teens: Step 1: Catch It Write down a negative or unhelpful thought you often notice during games or practices. Step 2: Flip It Rewrite the thought into a neutral or positive version that supports your performance. Step 3: Anchor It Choose one short phrase or mantra you can repeat when pressure builds. Example: 'Next point.'

Hi parents, I thought it would be good to have one spot for resources. Please share any books or podcasts that you find useful. We started our own podcast because we couldn't find one that was what we were looking for but please share if you find good ones. Even sharing a good episode would be helpful for all of us. Podcasts: parent episodes available on our podcast "Unstoppable Athlete - Mental Resilience for Teen Athletes" Books: Grit - Angela Duckworth Mindset - Carol Dweck Leading with the Heart - Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K) Unstoppable - Brian Tracy Hidden Potential - Adam Grant