athletes Archives - Friday Night Wives

When (Not If) Sports and Mental Health Collide

These are stories we hear every year — Coaches developing chronic panic attacks. Players suffering from depression or anxiety. Coaches becoming physically ill due to mental distress. Coaches and players struggling to navigate online criticism.

Faith, Family, Journal

With Football Season in Limbo, This Is What Calms My Soul

The “will there be a season” question seemed silly in March because, well, it was March. But somewhere between the cancellation of Spring football and the news today, the question felt like a weight pressing on my chest.

Journal

Dear Senior Athletes, A Note from the Coach’s Wife

In this unprecedented time of uncertainty, that is the one thing of which I am sure. Even if you don’t step on that field again, your senior season matters.

Resources

Free Coaching App Simplifies Team Communication

A free communication app, sportsYou is created specifically for the needs of coaches. It gives coaches the ability to privately communicate, schedule and share media with their team. With no character limits and the ability to send one-way messages, sportsYou is the most versatile communication ...

Journal, Marriage

Dear Coach, When You’re Losing

But I need you to know how much I love you when you are losing. I see you bring out the best you have to offer your athletes when you are losing.

Family, Journal, Marriage

I Wasn’t Prepared for this Life as a Coach’s Wife

I was not prepared for the pride and joy in this investment. Over and over I find that my heart is not prepared, but in many ways I can’t fully explain, instead it is renewed and repaired.

Faith, Family, Journal

Dear Upset Parent, From the Coach’s Wife

Next, there is a time and a place for this conversation. It is not now, not after a game, no matter the outcome. It is not while his family, friends, colleagues, and community are watching. Not in the middle of the field or outside the locker room. Certainly not at the volume you are speaking; ...

Family, Journal

Confessions From a Second Mama

I sat in that gym while my husband played basketball with my favorite teenager for hours after practice. No talking, no crying, just turning all his emotions into jump shots and the world’s biggest hug when we took him home. That’s all he needed.

Journal, Resources

The End-of-Season Debriefing Practice and How to Do It

We wanted an intentional way for our boys to process the experiences and emotions of the season rather than “just” having them turn in their equipment and move on to the next thing.

Journal, Resources

Why Football? 7 Ways Kids Benefit

It truly is a special thing to see when teammates and coaches come alongside their hurting brother and lift them up.

Family, Journal

To Daddy’s Players, From the Coach’s Daughter

Always remember that I learn from the examples that I see. You are my first heroes and who I want to be when I grow up. Please set out large shoes for me to fill. I am counting on you.

Journal

A Tribute to All the Fans in the Stands

I look for her now. I’ll glance at the stands and see if she’s there. She’s forever my reminder that supporting the ones we love is the only reason any of us should be there. I try to take her enthusiasm, authenticity, and gratitude and tuck it into my soul, remember there is something about ...

athletes

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