Building a Growth Mindset in Your Athlete

Derek Marr has spent more than 10 years helping athletes close the gap between physical preparation and peak performance. He earned his Ph.D. in Health Education and Promotion with an emphasis in Sport Psychology from the University of Missouri, an M.S.Ed. in Sport Pedagogy from Baylor University, and a B.S. in Physical Education from Grand Valley State University. As a former student-athlete at Grand Valley State, Derek was a member of 11 GLIAC Championship teams in cross country and track & field. Over the past decade, Derek has worked as a mental performance coach with athletes ranging from youth and high school competitors to NCAA champions, future Olympians, and professional athletes. He has consulted with collegiate programs that have gone on to win conference and national championships in volleyball, swimming and diving, track & field, and cross country. In addition, he served as a coach for 10 MHSAA State Championship teams. Derek's approach is individualized, evidence-based, and athlete-centered. He believes every athlete has unique strengths, challenges, and goals, and he works collaboratively with athletes to develop practical mental skills that enhance confidence, focus, resilience, and the ability to perform consistently under pressure. He is passionate about building meaningful relationships and empowering athletes to maximize their potential both in sport and in life.