Book Private Mental-performance Lessons with Coach Kristin

With 18 years of experience in track and field, my athletic journey is marked by dedication, resilience, and a continuous drive to excel. Competing at the Division 1 level in college and qualifying for national championships in high school have been milestones in my career, supported by the intensive mental and physical training that defines my approach as an athlete. My work with a sports therapist and sports psychologist during my D1 career strengthened my resilience and mental toughness, enabling me to handle the pressures of elite competition and refine techniques in performance management.

Beyond track and field, I bring a well-rounded understanding of athletics through my participation in cross-country, swimming, field hockey, tennis, soccer, and volleyball, which have contributed to my adaptability and insight into the demands of diverse sports. My accomplishments include qualifying for New Balance Nationals, participating in the Junior Olympics, and earning the All-PacWest Athlete title in the heptathlon in 2021. As a Division 1 and 2 scholarship recipient and a multi-skilled heptathlete, specializing in throws, hurdles, jumps, sprints, and the 800m, I remain committed to pushing boundaries both mentally and physically as a female athlete in competitive sports.

Incorporating a structured session that includes warm-up mindfulness exercises, goal reviews, skill development, application scenarios, self-reflection, and closing recaps can significantly enhance an athlete's performance. Starting with mindfulness helps athletes center themselves, reducing anxiety and improving focus, which prepares them mentally for the challenges ahead. Reviewing goals fosters accountability and tracks progress, reinforcing their commitment to personal development. Skill development through mental training techniques, such as visualization and positive self-talk, equips athletes with the tools to manage pressure and setbacks effectively. Role-playing scenarios allows them to practice applying these skills in realistic contexts, enhancing their readiness for competition. Encouraging self-reflection promotes a deeper understanding of their experiences, while summarizing key takeaways and providing additional resources supports continuous growth. Together, these elements create a comprehensive framework that nurtures both the mental and emotional aspects of athletic performance, ultimately leading to improved outcomes in their game.

1. Warm-Up

Mindfulness Exercise: Begin with a short mindfulness or breathing exercise to help the athlete center themselves and prepare mentally for the session.

2. Goal Review

Discussion: Review previously set goals, discussing progress and any challenges faced since the last session. This helps in tracking development and reinforcing accountability.

3. Skill Development

Mental Skills Training: Focus on specific techniques tailored to the athlete's needs, such as:

Visualization: Guided imagery to practice upcoming performances.

Self-Talk: Working on positive affirmations and reframing negative thoughts.

Resilience Strategies: Discussing how to cope with setbacks and maintain motivation.

4. Application

Scenario Practice: Role-play situations related to performance anxiety or pressure, allowing the athlete to apply the skills learned in real-life contexts.

5. Reflection

Self-Reflection: Encourage the athlete to share their thoughts on the session, what they learned, and how they plan to implement these skills in training and competitions.

6. Closing

Recap and Resources: Summarize key takeaways and provide resources for further development, such as reading materials or exercises to practice before the next session.

The best coach I ever had was my jumps coach, Coach Johnson. He had a unique way of pushing me to reach my fullest potential while instilling a strong sense of confidence within me. Coach Johnson understood the importance of balancing out the negatives with positive progress, always helping me see the strides I was making even on tough days.

One of the things that set Coach Johnson apart was the level of trust I had in his coaching. Knowing he had once been in my shoes as an athlete, I could connect with his guidance on a personal level, which strengthened my trust in his methods. When I doubted myself, he was always there to remind me of my capabilities and potential, lifting me up in the moments I needed it most.

Beyond his coaching on the track, Coach Johnson genuinely cared about our well-being off the field. He took the time to make sure we were doing alright, both physically and mentally, and he never hesitated to refer us to resources available to support us as athletes. He always welcomed feedback from or training. His commitment to both our athletic and personal development made him an exceptional coach who left a lasting impact on my life and career.

I am a dedicated athlete and mental performance coach with 18 years of experience in track and field, competing at the Division 1 level and qualifying for national championships. My diverse background includes participating in multiple sports, which provides me with a comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges youth athletes face, particularly as female athletes.

Currently pursuing a B.A. in Psychology at California State University Northridge (CSUN), I have developed a strong foundation in mental health and performance strategies. I hold certifications in CPR, AED, and First Aid, emphasizing my commitment to safety and well-being.

My hands-on experience includes serving as a Peer Educator with The Blues Project, where I raised awareness about mental health, and working as a Behavior Technician, supporting children and adolescents. These roles have enhanced my skills in communication and intervention, allowing me to effectively support young athletes.

I believe in a personalized approach to mental performance coaching, tailoring a curriculum to each athlete's specific needs and goals. By assessing individual strengths and areas for improvement, I develop strategies that empower athletes to build resilience, confidence, and the mental skills necessary for success in sports and life.

As a committed advocate for mental performance, I prioritize creating a positive, trusting environment where athletes can openly discuss their challenges and successes. My goal is to help young athletes reach their full potential while fostering a love for the journey in their athletic development.