Youth Sports Pressure to Performance: Mental Game Tips for Basketball Parents & Athletes

About the Guest

Shaitece Trigg is a seasoned sports psychology specialist with over eight years of experience helping athletes, teams, and coaches reach their highest potential.

With a focus on mental performance, Shaitece supports high-level athletes by applying therapeutic practices from the field of sports psychology.

She is the founder of Shift Performance, a company dedicated to securing happiness and facilitating positive transitions for athletes.

Episode Summary

In this episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with sports psychology specialist Shaitece Trigg to explore the mental challenges athletes face and how parents can best support their children through the ups and downs of competitive sports.

From performance anxiety to dips in confidence, Shaitece breaks down the mental patterns that impact athlete performance and the core strategies that can help. Ashley and Shaitece discuss the importance of mental performance coaching, why athletes struggle with pressure, and how parents can shift from critics to true supporters in their child’s athletic journey.

The conversation also dives into athlete identity, what happens when kids tie their self-worth entirely to sport, and how expanding that identity can build healthier, more resilient young people. This is a powerful episode for any parent looking to understand what their child is feeling, thinking, and battling behind the scenes.

Key Takeaways

• Performance Anxiety & Confidence: Athletes often experience game-day paralysis due to fear, anxiety, or low confidence.
• Parental Influence: The way parents engage with their children after practices and games shapes athletic identity and performance.
• Value of Mental Coaching: Mental performance work helps athletes manage stress, build confidence, and unlock their full potential.
• Understanding Identity: Encouraging athletes to develop interests and identity beyond their sport supports healthier self-esteem.
• Communication Matters: Open, supportive conversations help parents better understand their child’s needs and athletic experiences.

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