Stop the Spiral: When They Say They’re Not Coming Back

It’s February. Registration isn’t even open yet… and suddenly everyone is “not coming back next season.” You’re hearing it in the parent room. You’re hearing it from athletes. You’re hearing secondhand rumors about who’s quitting and why. And even if you try not to listen, it’s hard not to start spiraling: Who is actually staying? What will teams look like next year? What if we lose half the gym? Meanwhile, you still have months left in the current season — competitions to finish, routines to clean, athletes who still need you fully present. In this episode, Dan Cotton breaks down what’s really happening during this time of year. Why athlete fatigue peaks right now. Why parents start talking early. Why coaches absorb stress they shouldn’t. And most importantly, how to stop letting “next season noise” sabotage the season you’re still in. You’ll learn how to stabilize your mindset, quiet the rumor mill, refocus your team, and protect retention without panicking. If February has you questioning who will even be in your gym next year, this episode will steady you.