Sports & Performance Psychology
Hello everyone! Welcome back to the Positively Healthy Mom Podcast. I’m Laura Ollinger, and today, I’m thrilled to introduce Michael Huber, a Certified Mental Performance Consultant and the owner of Follow the Ball LLC. Michael brings a wealth of experience from his work with athletes aged 12 to 22, and his insights into youth sports are as eye-opening as they are empowering. Whether you’re a parent of an aspiring athlete or simply want to support your child’s growth through sports, this episode is packed with practical advice you won’t want to miss.
Understanding the Challenges in Youth Sports
Michael and I explore some of the most common challenges young athletes face, including fear of failure, perfectionism, and societal expectations. He explains how these pressures can impact not only athletic performance but also the emotional well-being of kids. Michael highlights the importance of recognizing these challenges early and addressing them to help young athletes thrive both on and off the field.
Supporting Young Athletes and Parents
One of Michael’s unique approaches is his focus on collaboration between parents and athletes. He works closely with families to create a supportive environment that helps manage stress and foster healthy communication. Michael emphasizes that parents play a crucial role in helping their kids navigate the highs and lows of sports, and he provides actionable tips to strengthen this relationship.
Shifting the Focus to Effort and Growth
Michael encourages a mindset shift from outcome-based goals to effort-driven success. By focusing on what kids can control—such as their effort, attitude, and commitment—young athletes can build resilience and a sense of accomplishment that isn’t tied solely to wins or losses. This perspective not only helps kids enjoy sports more but also fosters life skills that will benefit them beyond their athletic endeavors.
Recognizing and Addressing Burnout
Sports can be an incredible tool for growth, but they can also lead to burnout if not managed carefully. Michael shares strategies for recognizing when sports might be negatively affecting a child’s emotional or social well-being. He offers practical advice on how to strike a balance, ensuring that sports remain a positive and enriching experience for kids.
Encouraging Holistic Growth
One of Michael’s key messages is the importance of balanced growth. He encourages young athletes to explore interests beyond sports, emphasizing that this holistic approach leads to healthier and more well-rounded development. Whether it’s developing new hobbies, strengthening friendships, or excelling academically, Michael stresses that kids should feel free to grow in all areas of their lives.
A Personal Mission to Create Positive Sports Experiences
As both a father and a coach, Michael’s personal journey has inspired his mission to create meaningful, positive sports experiences for kids. He shares heartfelt stories from his own life that illustrate how sports can shape character, build confidence, and teach valuable lessons—when approached the right way.
Practical Advice for Parents and Kids
This episode is full of actionable insights for parents and kids alike. Whether your child dreams of becoming a pro athlete or is simply learning teamwork and discipline through sports, Michael’s expertise provides guidance for every step of the journey.
If you’re ready to support your child in becoming the best version of themselves through sports, don’t miss this full episode of the Positively Healthy Mom Podcast with Michael Huber. Tune in to learn how to navigate the challenges of youth sports, foster a supportive environment, and encourage balanced growth for your young athlete.
Connect with Michael Huber
You can find Michael on social media, where he shares even more tips and insights about youth sports, mental performance, and parenting.
Listen to the full episode to discover how to help your young athlete thrive—both on and off the field. Thank you for being part of this community!
