Posts by forgedbysports
More Signal, Less Noise: Coaching Focus in the Age of Distraction
The signal-to-noise ratio describes how much meaningful information (the signal) can be heard or understood amid all the distractions and interference (the noise). In youth sports, this analogy can be powerful. For young athletes, the ‘signal’ is made up of the core reasons they play—love of the game, mentorship, constructive feedback, skill development, camaraderie, and…
Read MoreWhy Are You Even Here: The Mindset That Shows Up When It Matters
This past weekend, I attended a major swim meet with one of our Forged by Sports athletes — the kind of meet that represents the significant training, early mornings, and commitment put in over the course of the year. Coaches plan for it. Volunteers run themselves ragged. Parents rearrange work schedules — all for a…
Read MoreHormones, Heartache, and Hustle: Navigating the Teenage Mind in Youth Sports
We often discuss nerves, pressure, and mental performance when youth athletes step onto the field. But what about the moments when it’s not the game stressing them out—but life itself? Teenage angst isn’t just a cliché or a punchline. It’s real. It’s messy. And it can derail even the most motivated and talented young athletes.…
Read MoreThe Power of Sportsmanship and Leadership: Winning with Honor, Losing with Dignity
In the intensity of athletic competition, character and leadership often shine brightest—not just in victory but in how athletes and coaches handle adversity and the moments that test their values. Athletes are frequently remembered not only for their achievements but also for how they conduct themselves under pressure. Last weekend’s college football games illustrated this…
Read MoreEmbracing the Struggle: The Transformative Power of Trying New Sports
Summer swim season is in full swing, and there’s a remarkable sight that never fails to inspire. Kids, some who could barely make it across the pool at the beginning of the season, are now pushing themselves to new limits. Their strokes might still be labored, and some might even get disqualified, but their progress…
Read MoreForged by Sports at TCS Live: Coaching Insights and Influence from Best of the Best
Forged by Sports at TCS Live: Coaching Insights and Influence from Best of the Best Forged by Sports had a fantastic experience with other members of The Coaches Site at the TCS Live coaching conference on the beautiful campus of the University of Michigan. Over the course of three days, the event featured a diverse…
Read MoreDealing with Challenging Athletes: When to Hang On and When to Let Go
Coaches often encounter athletes who might resist coaching, fail to integrate into the team culture, or simply lack the motivation to improve. Knowing when to push through these challenges and when to let go is crucial. One of my favorite sayings that vividly depicts this challenge is, “Never try to teach a pig to sing.…
Read MoreCoaching with Heart: Emotional Investment in Youth Sports
In youth sports, the role of a coach extends far beyond teaching the mechanics of a game or refining physical skills. At Forged by Sports, we believe that coaching is a profound emotional investment that can significantly impact a young athlete’s life, shaping their character, instilling values, and fostering resilience. This emotional commitment, driven by…
Read MoreSending the Right Message: Balancing Tough Love and Support for Youth Athletes
Creating a supportive yet challenging environment for youth athletes can be a delicate balance for parents and coaches. Through subtle and not-so-subtle communication, we can convey messages that we hope achieve positive outcomes, even if the words have a negative connotation. This became even more evident when a parent’s shirt at a recent youth sports…
Read MoreFostering Positivity: Supporting Young Athletes Through Disappointment
As a coach, I’ve seen firsthand the highs and lows of young athletes’ journeys. My personal belief is that a coach’s role extends beyond teaching the techniques and strategies of the game; we’re also there to guide our athletes through the emotional ups and downs that competitive sports can produce. As a parent, sometimes knowing…
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