From Wind to Wisdom: A Life in Sport
I began sailing at the age of 10, part of a school holiday programme with the neighbourhood kids - because, let’s be honest, our parents just needed somewhere to send us. Little did I know that those early moments on the water would steer me onto a path I never could have imagined.
Twenty-six years later, I’m still very much involved in sport. No longer as an athlete, but as a researcher, teacher, psychologist, coach - and now, mentor. Sport has evolved from something I did to something that shaped me.
Stumbling into TAP: The Unexpected LinkedIn Moment
At the risk of sounding like a cliché, my journey with The True Athlete Project (TAP) began through LinkedIn. A post, shared by a contact of a contact of a contact (you get the idea), announced an open call for mentors - people who wanted to be a positive force in the elite sporting community.
As someone who spent over a decade in high performance sport, having joined Singapore’s national sailing team in my teens, the opportunity to contribute to a programme that prioritised athletes over their achievements resonated deeply. In a system where worth is often tied to results and medals, TAP’s message felt radical - and necessary.
Mentorship Beyond Metrics
After the usual admin checks, interviews, and a flurry of emails, I was paired with my first mentee. What followed was an experience of shared stories, thoughtful dialogue, respectful debate, and yes - some heated conversations about what it means to commit to a sporting life.
Together, we explored the daily grind of being an athlete - not just battling competitors, but navigating life, expectations, and the exhausting reality of being seen as an outlier in the eyes of our societies. You’re exotic and exciting when you’re winning. When you're not, the language used to describe you often becomes... let’s just say, creatively unkind.
A Sanctuary in the Storm
TAP created something elusive in the world of high performance sport: a safe space. It felt like a sanctuary, where conversations weren’t engineered for performance reviews or goal-setting - but instead grounded in empathy, honesty, and mutual respect.
For once, there were no KPIs. No hidden agendas. No ego. Just a community committed to ensuring that, no matter how the conversation unfolded, everyone walked away feeling supported, better understood, and reminded that they were enough.
Redefining Success in the Age of Likes
In a world obsessed with visibility - where every win is signposted on social media for maximum reach - TAP offered a refreshing alternative: a quiet, powerful commitment to authenticity.
Sport is not always kind. That’s a truth we live with. But TAP reminds us that its people don’t have to perpetuate that unkindness. Instead, it challenges the traditional high-performance narrative by asking: what if we focused on who the athlete is, before we worry about what they achieve?
In this space, I’ve rediscovered something I didn’t realise I’d lost - gratitude, kindness, and the joy of connection in a time when we are more "connected" than ever, yet still feel isolated and misunderstood.
To Young Athletes: A Message from the Heart
Thinking about what I’d say to young athletes today, I’m reminded of a poem I wrote as part of my undergraduate dissertation. I’d like to share it here - not as advice, but as a reflection. A reminder that sport has the power to shape not just good athletes, but good people.
To the next generation: listen to your heart, not just the scoreboard. You are already enough because you are that elusive victory.

It begins like anything else does, for the fun, for the enjoyment,
for the love of the game.
Sport has never claimed to be easy; sport is not always kind …
but yet … sport is the passion always on my mind.
I used to wonder why I had to get up and go ….
Now that I’m older, I am grateful for the push and the shove,
realizing the support and the love.
What more is there when something you want brings you so much joy,
and is so much a part of you, it becomes your life!
Nothing worthwhile ever comes easy.
Hurdles are only as tall as you make them out to be.
The training is hard, the hours are long.
My body is stretched to limits beyond.
Regardless of grades, no time for friends,
The training will bring the win in the end.
My sense of purpose confuses me, being so different from all those around.
I pursue this path with an insatiable hunger,
for a win that knows no bounds!

To the next generation: listen to your heart, not just the scoreboard. You are already enough because you are that elusive victory.
- Nicholas de Cruz, PhD ​

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..
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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?
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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.

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.
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Learn more about TAP´s Mentoring Programs:
https://www.thetrueathleteproject.org/mentoring.html
#MindfulSport #Mentorship #AthleteDevelopment #TrueAthleteProject #PerformanceAndWellbeing #TAPJourney

​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.
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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