The transition into college athletics is often exciting, meaningful, and challenging all at once. Experiencing a struggle during the first semester or first year does not mean an athlete made the wrong decision or that the experience will always feel this hard. More often, it reflects the reality of adjusting to new expectations, identities, relationships, and levels of independence for both athletes and parents. 

Fear can be a student athlete’s toughest opponent. Whether it’s anxiety about making a mistake, worrying about disappointing coaches and teammates, or pressure to perform at peak levels, mental blocks can derail even the most skilled competitors.

You spend countless hours training. There’s no doubt you put in the work. You know your sport inside and out. But when it comes time to perform, something seems to get in your way.