MENTORSHIP

SOMETIMES AN ATHLETE NEEDS MORE THAN INSTRUCTION. THEY NEED PERSPECTIVE.

Being a student-athlete can mean managing expectations from coaches, parents, teammates, teachers—and yourself. There will be success. There may also be injury, reduced playing time, criticism, uncertainty, disappointment, changing relationships, difficult decisions, and moments when an athlete questions where they stand.

Mentorship gives the athlete another place to talk through those experiences with someone who understands competitive sport and can offer relatable perspective.

The goal is not to make decisions for the athlete. It is to help them become better equipped to make decisions for themselves.

Student-athlete reviewing written notes with a mentor beside an indoor training field.

FOUR AREAS WHERE MENTORSHIP CAN PROVIDE PERSPECTIVE

EXPECTATIONS & PRESSURE

Talk through expectations from coaches, parents, teammates, teachers, and the athlete themselves.

SETBACKS & CHANGE

Work through injury, reduced playing time, criticism, uncertainty, disappointment, and changing relationships.

COMMUNICATION

Prepare for difficult conversations and communicate with greater clarity and intention.

DECISION-MAKING

Consider options, consequences, and practical next steps without making the choice for the athlete.

GUIDANCE — NOT THERAPY OR CRISIS COUNSELING

MENTORSHIP CAN INCLUDE

• Perspective

• Organization

• Accountability

• Student-athlete development guidance

• Preparation for difficult conversations and decisions

MENTORSHIP DOES NOT REPLACE

• Psychotherapy or mental-health treatment

• Crisis counseling

• Legal advice

• Academic counseling

• Medical care

When a concern exceeds the appropriate scope of mentorship, Sanctuary may encourage the athlete or family to seek assistance from a qualified professional.

THE GOAL IS NOT TO MAKE DECISIONS FOR THE ATHLETE. IT IS TO HELP THEM BECOME BETTER EQUIPPED TO MAKE DECISIONS FOR THEMSELVES.

PARENT AND GUARDIAN INVOLVEMENT

Because Sanctuary serves student-athletes who may be minors, parent or legal-guardian participation may be required for certain assessments, services, agreements, communications, or decisions.

Sanctuary encourages open communication among athletes, parents or guardians, coaches, schools, and qualified professionals when appropriate.