Coaching the Athletic Mind - Episode 24 - Coach Kelly Slate's insight on Prioritizing Person over Player in Preteen Athletes (Part 2)

In episode 24 of the Coaching The Athletic Mind Podcast, host Megan Weaver continues her conversation with Modified West Genesee Girls soccer team coach, Kelly Slate.  The episode highlights the critical role of coaches as safety nets for middle school girls, explaining the distinction between performance-based confidence and deep-rooted self-confidence. Kelly shares her observations on the evolving pressures on young athletes due to social media and parental expectations. She emphasizes the importance of building mental resilience and character over focusing solely on winning. The discussion also touches on training routines for young athletes before tryouts and managing the pressures of comparison. Megan and Kelly conclude by reflecting on the rewarding aspects of coaching and supporting young athletes.