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By Stephanie Plunkett
My relationship with sport has always been varied. Currently, I play rugby, but over the years I’ve also been a footballer, hockey player, netball player, swimmer, dancer, and competition cheerleader. Alongside this, I work as a personal trainer supporting athletes – and I’ve been on a journey to find a better way of working with them that aligns with my values: prioritising the enjoyment of movement over traditional measures of performance. A moment that has stayed with me from being part of The True Athlete Project (TAP) was during a community meet-up. I was surrounded by international coaches, researchers, former international athletes, and authors. Initially, I felt that my voice wasn’t important in that space – these people had so much more experience than me. But when it came to my turn to share, everyone listened. They asked questions and genuinely wanted to hear my perspective. In that moment, I realised that even though I may not be at the top end of elite sport, I have a lot of experience and understanding of sports and coaching. My voice matters. Being part of the TAP community has been affirming. I’ve often felt that my perspective on sport is different from others – I care more about enjoyment and athlete welfare than I do about winning. Because of that, I’ve not always been taken seriously in the performance sports world. TAP has shown me that my view of sport is just as important in elite environments as it is at community level. It’s re-ignited a fire inside me that had been crushed after years of feeling I was fighting against the system. Through TAP, I’ve learnt that my opinion is valid. That I do have valuable experience. I’ve also seen that many people want sport to be a place of growth, well-being, and fun – but they lack the tools to change the environments they’re in. If I could tell my past self one thing before starting this journey, it would be: “Keep believing in what you think is right. Others may not see things your way, but don’t let that quieten your voice.” And to anyone thinking about joining TAP or supporting their work: Give it a go. You might just find something here you didn’t expect. Join with an open mind and engage as much as you can – it’s a place to find like-minded people, but also to discuss different views critically and openly. The TAP Membership Community is a space for those who care deeply about the well-being of athletes and the culture of sport. As a member, you’ll connect with others committed to bringing presence, purpose, and compassion into their coaching and practice. By subscribing, you're supporting our grassroots and community work in the USA, enabling us to initiate impactful change in communities. Together, we're transforming lives, one true athlete at a time. Join us in making a difference. I want to join. Inspired by Dr. Matt Bowers’ workshop for The True Athlete Project Membership Community
At The True Athlete Project, we believe that sport can be a sacred space for human development, a place where young people grow not only as athletes, but as whole people. But for that to happen, we need to rethink the systems we’ve built. In his workshop for TAP, Matt Bowers offered a fresh philosophy of youth sport, one that centers long-term wellbeing, play, and purpose, rather than early success and over-specialisation. Here are 12 reflections from his session, ideas that challenge the current culture and invite us into a more sustainable, compassionate approach to youth development: 1. Don’t Take the Deal Real change won’t come from inside the current system, it will take courageous parents, coaches, and mentors willing to say no to the pressure. Hold on to your values, even when the system tries to pull you in. 2. Not Sticks. Not Carrots. Batons. It’s not about controlling outcomes, it’s about support and timing. Carry the baton when needed, and pass it when it’s time. Let children take the lead in their own journey, with you walking beside them. 3. Start with Self-Determined Sports Team sports can sometimes disconnect children from direct feedback. In sports like bouldering, climbing, or martial arts, young people feel their own progress. These contexts are ideal for developing body awareness, self-confidence, and intrinsic motivation. 4. They Aren’t LeBron Exceptional athletes are just that - exceptions. They aren’t the model. Pushing kids to follow the path of an elite outlier does more harm than good. Support their unique path, not someone else’s blueprint. 5. Reject the “Tautology of Travel Ball” The idea that there’s only one way to succeed in sport, elite travel teams, early specialisation, constant competition, is a myth. There are many paths. We need to open doors, not close them. 6. Use a Constraints-Led, Macro Approach Change the environment. Let kids play in leagues where they are both the best and the worst. Manipulate the structure to support learning, resilience, and adaptability. 7. Play–Compete Golden Mean In the current model, 8-year-olds travel out of state to play six games on a weekend, with just one practice during the week. That’s backwards. Prioritise training over competition, and go one step further: add more play. Unstructured, child-led play is not wasted time, it’s where creativity, autonomy, and joy are built. 8. They Don’t Need to Be the Best 8-Year-Old Stop aiming to peak at 8. Development is a marathon, not a sprint. Let’s focus on who they’re becoming at 19 or 23, not whether they’re the best 8 year old... 9. Pursue the Path of Least Commitment In our culture, over-commitment is almost a badge of honour. But investing everything early (time, money, identity) often leads to burnout. Ask instead: What’s the minimum a 6-year-old needs to benefit from sport? The rest of their time can be used to play, rest, and explore freely. 10. Cultivate Non-Sport Identities A child who sees themselves as only an athlete is vulnerable to mental health challenges, injury, and difficult transitions. Support their growth as whole humans, through art, music, relationships. These experiences build resilience and self-worth. 11. Cheer for the Positive Sum A zero-sum mindset (“If their kid makes the team, mine won’t”) distorts community. Let’s shift to a positive-sum view: These are all our kids. When one child thrives, the whole environment improves. 12. Let Sport Grow the Human, Not Just the Player We often speak about sport as transformational, yet design it to be transactional. If we truly believe in the power of sport to shape lives, we must design and deliver it with care. Focus on process, not just outcome. Value growth, not just results. At TAP, we believe there’s a better way. A kinder way. A wiser way. One that honours children as full humans. One that creates communities where everyone can thrive. And one that trusts that if we play the long game, we’ll all go further. 🙏 Thank you to Dr. Matt Bowers. Watch the recording here. 💬 What idea resonated with you most? Are you trying to challenge the system in your own way, as a parent, coach, or athlete? We’d love to hear your thoughts. #TrueAthleteProject #YouthSport #SportWithHeart #AthleteDevelopment #LongTermDevelopment #PlayMatters #SportsParenting #CoachingCulture #MindfulnessInSport #TransformationNotTransaction Mindfulness vs. Meditation: What’s the Difference - and Why Does It Matter in Sport?In the world of performance - especially in sport - the words mindfulness and meditation get thrown around a lot. But they’re not the same thing. Understanding the difference could be the key to unlocking a whole new level of mental strength, both on and off the field.
Meditation Is a Practice Meditation is a formal practice. We pause. Sit. Breathe. We focus the mind and observe the moment. It’s structured. It’s intentional. Like strength training - but for your awareness. Through meditation, we build the muscle of attention. We learn to watch our thoughts, not be ruled by them. We learn to return - again and again - to the present moment. Mindfulness Is a Way of Being Mindfulness is how we live that awareness. Moment to moment. Noticing what’s happening - inside and around us. Without judging it. Without trying to fix it. It’s presence, in action. Not something we do once in a while, But a way we are, more and more. One Builds the Other Meditation helps you slow down. To notice your thoughts, feelings, and patterns. To get curious about your experience. Mindfulness helps you carry that clarity into real life. Into pressure. Conflict. Decision-making. Into sport. One builds the skill. The other turns it into a trait. And together, they create space between stimulus and response So you can choose how you show up. Why It Matters in Sport Mindfulness shows up when it matters most. In the heat of competition. In a high-pressure moment. It helps you pause. Notice. Respond - instead of react. You begin to notice stress and overwhelm without being controlled by them. You soften your self-talk. You build resilience. You widen the gap between fear and focus, so your best self can step in. Why It Matters - In Life Meditation is the training ground. Mindfulness is the life you live from it. You won’t always feel calm. But you’ll have tools. You’ll have awareness. You’ll have choice. That’s what changes the game. And that’s what changes you. Check out our Mindfulness for Sport Online Course delivered by TAP Founder, Sam Parfitt: https://thetrueathleteproject.thinkific.com/courses/mindfulness-for-sport The true athlete project podcast series: coaching with impact and mindfulness with reem abdalazem7/21/2025 In the latest episode of the AthMindset® Podcast, host Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, concludes our special three-part series with a powerful and heartfelt conversation featuring Reem Abdalazem Bossaty OLY - a two-time Olympian, expert coach, and passionate advocate for holistic athlete development. Reem is also a proud TAP Mentor, deeply aligned with our mission of transforming lives through sport.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about coaching, athlete well-being, and building a more compassionate sports culture. Reem’s Journey: From Olympian to Impact-Driven Coach Reem shares her incredible journey from representing Egypt in artistic swimming at the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympics, to becoming an internationally recognized coach who emphasizes “impact over titles.” Rather than focusing solely on podiums and prestige, Reem’s coaching philosophy centers around:
Coaching Tips: Reem’s Top 3 Ways to Have a Bigger Impact Reem’s message to coaches is clear: Your influence is profound. Make it count. Here are her top three tips for making a lasting, positive impact: 1. Know the Athletes You Support“Recognize that each athlete is unique.” Get to know who your athletes truly are - beyond their performance. Understand their backgrounds, personalities, and goals. Your words and actions shape their self-belief, so be intentional and compassionate in your communication. 2. Always Seek to Become a Better Human “Embrace lifelong learning and a beginner’s mindset.” Great coaching starts with self-awareness. Reflect on your own coaching approach, seek mentorship, and prioritize your own health and well-being. Stay open to creativity, innovation, and growth. 3. Empower Athlete Autonomy “Create space for athletes to explore their identities.” Help athletes discover who they are - what drives them, where they struggle, and what they want from their sport. Empowerment begins with trust and the freedom to take ownership of their journey. 🌍 A Global Impact in Artistic SwimmingReem’s coaching credentials are as impressive as her Olympic career. A former collegiate All-American at Lindenwood University, she captained the team to its first national title. She has since:
This episode is an enlightening listen for:
🙌 Join the Movement At The True Athlete Project, we believe sport can and should be a force for good. Reem Abdalazem embodies this belief through her work as a TAP Mentor, and we are grateful to share her story. Written by: The True Athlete Project Team Featuring: Lisa Bonta Sumii and Reem Abdalazem Bossaty OLY Podcast: AthMindset® – Mental Health in Sport Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved with TAP? I'm in my second year as an athlete mentor with TAP's Global Mentoring Program. Before working with TAP, I was a retired professional athlete who had only had a small stint in the world of professional sports. I struggled with the “go hard, don’t rest” culture. Everyone was expected to be the same. It didn’t work for me , and that ultimately led me to retire before my career had really started. What came after that? I went into coaching part-time. And as a coach, I knew that I wanted to treat everyone as unique individuals, with compassion and respect. When I discovered TAP, I was introduced to a whole community who shared the exact same values. It was such a relief to find people who believed in a different kind of sport culture.. What’s it been like to be part of the Global Mentoring Program? Being an athlete mentor has brought me so much more confidence in myself as a leader. And being in this community reignited my drive for sport. It even swayed my decision to go back into rowing professionally, this time with a whole new attitude and with the TAP community behind me for support. Is there a moment from your time with TAP that really stayed with you? Definitely. One of the standout moments for me was working at the National School Games finals. Not only did I get to meet so many TAP mentors in person, but I also had the chance to mentor the junior para-athletes. They had the most beautiful attitude to competition...They really held on to why they train and why they compete in the first place. Their love for the sport, just being there, being with their friends and family, that’s what really mattered to them... Of course, they wanted to win. But they never let that get in the way of their true values. I’ve held on to that ever since. If you could go back and speak to your younger self, what would you say?
Just stick to your gut... Just because everyone around you is doing something in a certain way doesn’t mean that it’s right for you... Embrace your differences and be kind to yourself, because you really are not alone. And finally, what would you say to someone thinking about joining or supporting TAP? TAP is a beautiful community filled with amazing and inspirational people. If you’re thinking about joining, whether through joining their membership, a donation, or a workshop, you won’t be disappointed. And it’s not just the community...The resources and the workshops TAP provides have been so incredibly useful for my journey. And my journey is still going... 💬 Inspired by Claire’s story? Explore our Global Mentoring Program or become part of the TAP community here. We’re thrilled to share that our very own Oz Marginean, Head of Community at The True Athlete Project, recently joined Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, on The AthMindset® Podcast for a powerful and deeply personal conversation.
Oz, who brings a unique blend of experience as a former NCAA Division 1 athlete, professional basketball player, movement coach and now a community leader, is on a mission to transform the sport culture. Her work focuses on weaving mindfulness, movement, and creativity into the fabric of athletic development, creating a more compassionate and holistic approach to sport. In this inspiring episode, Oz and Lisa explore themes that are often left unspoken in the world of sports:
Key Takeaways from the Episode - Explore your identity beyond sport—even while still playing Many athletes wait until they retire to explore who they are outside of their sport. Oz encourages starting that process early, which helps make the eventual transition less overwhelming and more fulfilling. - Performance anxiety and burnout are more common than you think Oz opens up about her own struggles with anxiety and the pressures of being “on” all the time. These are not weaknesses, but invitations to reflect and reset. - Mindfulness and playful movement are powerful tools Learning to connect to the body through awareness and curiosity enhances not just performance, but presence and joy—on and off the field. - Creativity fuels holistic well-being When athletes tap into creative practices, they gain new ways of expressing themselves and processing experiences. It’s about more than just sport—it’s about wholeness. - Relationships beyond the athletic bubble are essential Cultivating friendships and support systems outside of sport builds a stronger, more rounded sense of self. - Start the transition while you're still playing Oz encourages athletes to explore their values, passions, and relationships before they leave sport. Doing this helps create a more grounded and purpose-filled life after athletics. This episode is part of a special 3-part series. Stay tuned for upcoming conversations with Sam Parfitt and Reem Abdalazem Bossaty OLY as we continue to explore the inner life of athletes and the future of sport culture. Check out Oz´s IG for movement ideas and tools: https://www.instagram.com/oz.marginean/ As a former professional rugby 7s player, I’ve spent much of my life in high-performance environments—pushing limits, chasing results, and managing the relentless pressure that comes with elite sport. But over the past two years, my experience with The True Athlete Project (TAP) has offered something different—something deeper.
A Rounded Human Experience My journey with TAP so far has been a truly rounded human experience. It’s required self-reflection. It’s been very challenging. But most of all, I’ve really enjoyed being part of an aligned community looking to develop themselves, but ultimately to give back to aspiring young athletes and help them on their own journey of growth and discovery. The Power of Community & Vulnerability There’ve been many key moments in this TAP journey that stick out for me, but the ones that are the most valuable are the workshops. They’re a coming together of people, sharing experiences, being vulnerable, and just being open to learn. Why Mindfulness in Sport Matters TAP so far is a very important experience for me. Exploring mindfulness for me is an incredibly powerful approach to sports. With all the pressures and scrutiny that sportspeople face, having this greater awareness of our position in the world, the impact we have through sport… I think really helps bridge the gap between high performance and being our best selves. It helps us fulfil our potential and be able to thrive as human beings, not just performers, but people. A Message to Young Athletes For any young athlete considering joining the TAP journey, I say: absolutely go for it. You will come out a different person than when you go in. It’s a safe space, free of judgment. But most importantly, you become part of this amazing community that’s looking to drive forward a different approach to sport—leading with care, compassion, and attention to the person. So you can thrive on the pitch as a performer, and fulfil your potential as a human being. Sport is all about shared experiences, with your teammates, with your fans, with friends, and with family of course. So for me, being able to mentor with TAP and give back to these young aspiring athletes is incredibly rewarding. I love being part of their journey, seeing their own development, and having those breakthrough moments, where you and they realise the power that they have within them. Learn more about TAP´s Mentoring Programs: https://www.thetrueathleteproject.org/mentoring.html #MindfulSport #Mentorship #AthleteDevelopment #TrueAthleteProject #PerformanceAndWellbeing #TAPJourney 🎙️ “This idea of doing these types of practices in a dynamic sporting setting that's normally about the competition and noisy... I had like maybe eight kids come up to me for mental health support conversations. They'd never seen that before at a training camp. There was just something that it unlocked in the athlete's idea of what the space was about. It's about all of me.” – Sam Parfitt
What if sport was designed to develop both performance and well-being? On the latest episode of AthMindset®, TAP Founder & CEO Sam Parfitt shares how sport can be a vehicle for compassion, resilience, and holistic development—not just results. Key Takeaways: - Athletes are humans first, not just performers. Too often, sports culture prioritizes winning at the cost of an athlete’s well-being. A healthy training environment recognizes that emotions, mental health, and personal growth are just as important as physical performance. - Mindfulness is a practical tool for focus, well-being, and resilience. Athletes are constantly managing pressure, uncertainty, and competition. Mindfulness provides tangible strategies to stay present, regulate emotions, and handle challenges with clarity—helping both performance and long-term mental health. - Compassion and discipline are not opposites; they enhance each other. Some believe that pushing harder and ignoring emotions leads to success, but in reality, a balance of self-compassion and grit produces more resilient and motivated athletes. When athletes feel safe and supported, they are more likely to test their limits in a sustainable way. - The best sports cultures don’t just produce great athletes, they nurture great humans. TAP’s approach is about shifting the paradigm: Instead of seeing athletes solely as competitors, we recognize their full humanity. Through connection, creativity, and self-awareness, sport can be a space for both personal and athletic transformation. Simply creating space for openness changes the environment. Imagine the impact if this approach was the norm. 🎧 Listen to Sam’s conversation on Athlete Mindset: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ytj2wl5MXb0 Can you share a little about your journey as a mentor so far? What have been some key moments?
My journey as a mentor has been deeply personal and rewarding. Coming from a background as a student-athlete, I have experienced first-hand the pressures of balancing sport, academics, and personal life. Being part of TAP’s mentoring programme has allowed me to give back in a meaningful way. One key moment is seeing my mentee gaining confidence in speaking about their struggles and realising they weren’t alone. Another was when my mentee told me they took action on something we discussed, such as setting priorities in order to improve time management. Those moments remind me why this work matters, and I am excited to continue to experience more of these moments and grow alongside my mentee. 2. Why do you think mentoring is so crucial, especially in the world of sport? Athletes often navigate high-pressure environments where vulnerability isn’t always encouraged. Mentoring creates a safe space where they can talk openly about challenges, from performance anxiety to identity struggles. It also helps them develop skills beyond sport - resilience, confidence, and emotional intelligence. Having someone who understands the journey can make all the difference in an athlete’s ability to thrive both on and off the field. 3. How do you see the intersection of mindfulness, well-being, and athletic performance in TAP’s mentoring programme? Why is this approach so impactful for athletes? Mindfulness and well-being aren’t just add-ons to athletic performance, they are fundamental to success. TAP’s approach recognises that an athlete’s mental state directly affects their game. When athletes learn to manage stress, stay present, and take care of their overall well-being, they perform better and recover more effectively. This holistic approach empowers them to develop long-term habits that sustain both their mental health and athletic careers. 4. What would you say to a young athlete thinking about joining the Global Athlete Mentoring Programme? I’d say, go for it. This programme isn’t just about improving as an athlete; it’s about growing as a person. You’ll gain a mentor who truly understands your experiences, and you’ll be part of a supportive community that prioritises both performance and well-being. The lessons you’ll take away - whether about mental resilience, identity, or personal growth - will serve you well far beyond your sport. Apply here for our Americas Mentoring Cohort starting this August: https://www.thetrueathleteproject.org/apply-839194.html Register your interest for the Global Mentoring Programme: https://www.thetrueathleteproject.org/apply.html My Journey as a Mentor
Hello, my name is Brian Bell. I’m a three-time Paralympic gold medalist in wheelchair basketball, and this is my very first year with the TAP (True Athlete Project) mentoring programme. So far, it’s been an incredible journey. I’ve had the chance to meet my mentee and really dive into the unique experiences and challenges they’re navigating. In today’s world—especially with the influence of social media—it feels important to give back. Sharing my insights and experiences has been incredibly fulfilling. What makes this experience even more special is that my mentee is also a basketball player. That shared background has allowed us to really connect on a deeper level. I understand the pressure, the grind, and the passion because I’ve lived it too. And now I get to be a part of someone else’s journey, helping them through the same hoops I once jumped through. Why Mentoring is Crucial in Sports Mentoring is a powerful resource, one I believe more athletes should take advantage of. There’s something incredibly valuable about learning directly from someone who’s been in your shoes. You get to hear their stories, understand their decisions, and see how they overcame obstacles. For mentees, it’s an opportunity to avoid the mistakes we, as mentors, may have made at their age. It gives them a chance to leap forward with insight and clarity. When you have access to that kind of experience, it’s a game-changer for your athletic journey. The TAP Mentoring Program: Mindfulness and Wellbeing One of the standout aspects of TAP is how it brings together mindfulness, wellbeing, and athletic performance. Today, mental health is finally getting the attention it deserves in the world of sport. This programme understands that peak performance isn't just about physical training, it’s also about being mentally and emotionally prepared. TAP gives both mentors and mentees tools to explore these areas, which in turn, supports better performance and a more grounded approach to competition. Athletes who are mentally sound and equipped with practical tools are more tuned in and able to perform at their best. It’s been a huge eye-opener to see how this holistic approach enhances not only athletic success, but personal growth as well. A Message to Future Mentees To all the young athletes out there: don’t be afraid to fail. You’re going to face moments where you feel like you’ve done everything right, but the result doesn’t reflect that. That’s okay. Progress isn’t always linear. The key is to stick with it. Keep doing the things that got you where you are, and never stop learning. Get feedback, whether it’s from coaches, mentors, or teammates, and absorb it like a sponge. Keep grinding. Keep working. The results will come if you stay consistent, curious, and open to growth. Your goals are within reach, just keep going. #Mentorship#AthleteDevelopment#MindfulnessInSport#Paralympics #TrueAthleteProject #BrianBell #Wellbeing #SportsPerformance Learn more about our mentoring programs and apply here: https://www.thetrueathleteproject.org/mentoring.html Hi, I’m Milka Kraljev, and I’d love to share a bit about my journey as a mentor and why I believe mentoring is so essential in sports.
My Journey as a Mentor My journey as a mentor has been incredibly rewarding. Having spent so many years as a high-performance athlete, I’ve experienced first-hand the challenges, doubts, and high-pressure moments that athletes face. These moments are not easy to navigate, and that's where mentoring plays a pivotal role. As a mentor, I’m passionate about supporting other athletes in their growth. Helping them build confidence, manage their emotions, and find clarity in their journey is something I truly believe in. One of the most powerful moments for me as a mentor was hearing an athlete speak with the same passion about her sport that I once had. It was a reminder of the transformative power of sport and how that spark of passion can instill confidence in an athlete, enabling them to believe they can change their world through sport. Why Mentoring is Crucial in Sports Sports are so much more than just training and competing. They are a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and constant growth. While the physical aspect of sport is crucial, the mental and emotional side is just as important. Having a mentor can make all the difference in an athlete's development. It’s the difference between facing challenges alone and having someone to guide you, listen to you, and help you see the bigger picture. A mentor’s role extends beyond just helping with athletic skills. It’s about fostering personal and professional growth—navigating the pressures, setbacks, and high points that come with pursuing a career in sports. The TAP Mentoring Program: Focused on More than Just Medals At TAP’s mentoring program, we believe that an athlete’s success isn’t measured solely by medals or results. It’s about overall well-being. Our unique approach combines mindfulness, well-being, and performance. We focus on helping athletes not only improve in their sport but also learn to manage pressure, recover more effectively, and maintain balance in their lives. When athletes feel good within themselves, they perform better—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It's about creating a holistic support system that allows athletes to thrive both on and off the field. A Message to Future Mentees If you’re considering joining the Global Athlete Mentoring Program, I’d say: Go for it. This program offers a unique opportunity to grow, learn, and connect with people who truly understand your journey. You’re not alone in this, and a mentor can provide the support you need to discover your true potential and find clarity in every step of your career. Mentoring can help you navigate the complexities of your athletic path, develop resilience, and ultimately, achieve the success you desire. Take the leap—you won’t regret it! Join Us If you're ready to take the next step in your athletic and personal journey. Applications are now open for the Americas Cohort of the Global Athlete Mentoring. Apply here: https://www.thetrueathleteproject.org/apply-839194.html #MentoringInSports #GlobalAthleteMentoring #AthleteWellbeing #SportsMentoring #MindfulnessInSports #PerformanceAndWellbeing #AthleteSupport |
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