Reflecting on Nationals Week: Supporting Your Athlete's Mindset Beyond the Scoreboard

As Nationals come to a close, many athletes are heading home with hearts full, legs tired, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether your athlete’s team made it all the way or faced tough competition early on, the emotional rollercoaster of this week is real—for both players and parents.

This time of year is always charged with intensity, pride, and pressure. And as a Mindset Coach, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful the right words can be in helping athletes stay grounded and connected to what really matters.

Here are some key reminders that can continue to support your athlete—even after the final whistle has blown:

It’s About More Than Winning

This week wasn’t just about results. It was about the memories made in the hotel hallways, the bonds built on the bench, and the pure love of the game that brought your athlete this far.

To every parent who cheered from the stands, waited in the car, or refreshed scores from afar—thank you. Your presence matters more than you know.

Here’s the message I shared with my own athletes: “Good luck this week! Remember, you have everything you need within you to succeed. Now go out and have FUN!”

And here’s another reminder I hope you’ll pass along: “You are loved, you are worthy, and you are enough—no matter the scoreboard.”

These words don’t just matter during the tournament. They’re what your athlete needs to carry with them long after the gear is packed up.

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Now is the Time for Reflection

As the adrenaline fades and routines return, take a moment to reflect—with your athlete and on your own. Ask them how they felt, what they’re proud of, and what they learned.

Here’s something you can say or share with them:

“This is about more than winning—it's about the memories, the teammates, and the love you have for the game.

You are loved. You are worthy. You are enough—no matter the scoreboard.

One day, you’ll wish for five more minutes on that ice. So play like this is it.”

This kind of message can help shift their focus from outcome to experience—and remind them why they started playing in the first place.

🎧 Still feeling the pressure? The free private podcast is here for any time your athlete needs to reset, refocus, or reconnect with confidence. 👉 Listen here!

As Nationals week wraps up, remember: what your athlete will carry forward isn’t just the final score. It’s the pride they felt. The lessons they learned. The love they were shown—especially when things didn’t go perfectly.

Keep reminding them of who they are beyond the game. And remind yourself, too—you’re doing an incredible job.

You’ve got this—and so do they.