Beyond Academics and Athletics at IMG Academy

Participating in school or community sports offers plenty of benefits beyond growing athletic skill. Studies have shown sports can also improve social skills and self-confidence. However, studies have also shown that the drive to perform at your best can also cause unwanted stress and anxiety; while that could be a cause for concern, there are actually ways that schools can help alleviate these issues.

According to Dr. Taryn Morgan, Ph.D, and VP of Athletic and Personal Development at IMG Academy, it’s important to help student-athletes understand that having a balanced approach is key to their success.

“We use an athletic and personal development program that covers areas like leadership, vision training, nutrition, mental toughness and durable life skills,” Taryn explains. “Addressing these together can give students a balanced framework that will serve them well after they leave school, preparing them for success in and out of sports.

She goes on to break down seven pieces of advice educators and coaches should follow when developing their own holistic athletic and personal development programs:

1. Control what you can, accept the rest
2. Focus on process rather than outcome
3. Encourage a growth mindset
4. Harness the power of neutral thinking
5. Uncover the “why”
6. Practice breathing exercises
7. Educate yourself

While being a student-athlete may come with challenges along the way, teaching them how to manage stress will help them find the right balance and train not just their body, but also their mind.

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IMG Academy continues to be the industry leader in sports development and college recruitment for dedicated student-athletes. To sign up for a spring or summer camp, or any of our on-campus or online youth programs, check out the links below.