Introduction To Performance Psychology - Spkn Sport Leadership Academy

SPKN Leadership Series: Introduction to Performance Psychology for Coaches

What separates good athletes from great ones? It's not just skill-it's mindset. In Introduction to Performance Psychology for Coaches, the second workbook in the SPKN Leadership Series, you'll gain the tools to train your athletes' minds just as intentionally as you train their bodies.

This practical, research-based guide gives coaches the essential mental strategies that elite performers use to stay confident, focused, and composed under pressure. Whether you're working with high school athletes or collegiate teams, this workbook will equip you with the core concepts of performance psychology-such as mental toughness, discipline, focus, emotional regulation, self-talk, visualization, and mindfulness.

Inside, you'll discover:

• How to build mental toughness through adversity
• Techniques to sharpen focus and composure during high-stakes moments
• Tools for teaching athletes to bounce back from failure
• Strategies for integrating mental skills into daily training
• Case studies, drills, and checklists to bring performance psychology to life

This isn't theory-it's actionable coaching that transforms performance. With the SPKN approach, you'll learn how to coach the mind, not just the game-so your athletes don't just perform better; they grow stronger, more resilient, and more confident.

It's time to unlock the full potential of your team-starting from the inside out.
About the Authors:

Meg Wilson, M.A, Speaker, Author, Podcast Host, and Founder & CEO of SPKN, brings over 25 years of experience in coaching and athlete development, establishing herself as a recognized leader in sport coaching psychology. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from Boston College in Communication and Psychology and a Masters Degree in Sport Coaching Psychology from the University of Denver. A published author in both academic journals and sport leadership, Meg's career is rooted in her experiences as a former U.S. National Junior Tennis player and two-sport NCAA Division I athlete. Her passion for holistic athlete development drives her to help coaches nurture athletes mentally and physically, ensuring their success both on and off the field.

J.R. Brandin's coaching journey began in the film room and on the practice court at the University of Denver, where he served as Head Manager and Student Coach for the Division I men's basketball program. Immersed in the behind-the-scenes workings of high-level college basketball for five years, he developed a deep passion for coaching, leadership, and athlete development. Today, J.R. coaches club basketball, bringing the same energy and attention to detail to every practice and game. As Coach Development Manager at SPKN, J.R. helps coaches nationwide build stronger cultures and integrate mental skills training into their day-to-day work with athletes.