The Overlooked Side of Sports: Mental Skills Every Athlete Needs

In today’s fast-paced world of youth sports, the pressure on young athletes has never been greater. Beyond the physical demands of training and competition, many wrestle with self-doubt, fear of judgment, and limiting beliefs that can hold them back both on and off the field. While traditional athletic programs emphasize strength, skill, and performance, the mental side of the game is just as critical for long-term success and well-being. More families, coaches, and schools are beginning to recognize that preparing athletes for competition also means equipping them with tools to build confidence, resilience, and purpose.

That’s where Tony Everett, owner of My Personal Best Coaching in Orange County, California, comes in. Tony works with student-athletes, families, coaches, and athletic programs to address the mental barriers often overlooked in training. Drawing on decades of experience—from leading PureGame, a nonprofit that served thousands of kids, to designing programs for incarcerated youth—he has developed a unique approach that blends mentorship, lived experience, and actionable strategies.

Rather than diagnosing or treating clinical conditions, Tony focuses on mindset mastery and personal development. His coaching equips athletes with practical tools to reframe challenges, strengthen their inner dialogue, and build authentic confidence. The result is a holistic and empowering complement to sports psychology—one that not only prepares athletes to perform at their best but also helps them thrive in life beyond the game.