In elite youth soccer, kids are under constant evaluation. That pressure changes how they play, how they learn, and how they feel about the game.In this episode of Chasing the Game. Youth Soccer in America, we’re joined by Dr. Jonathan Jenkins and Dr. Kimberly O’Brien, authors of Mentality Wins, to break down the mental toll of academy pressure, fear of mistakes, comparison culture, and how parents and coaches can support confidence without lowering standards.This conversation is for soccer parents and coaches navigating tryouts, feedback, burnout, and the car ride home.EPISODE SHOW NOTES:What we coverWhy constant evaluation changes how kids playFear of mistakes vs confidence and flowThe “2% edge”. Why mental skills matter more than physical differencesComparison of culture and identity in elite youth soccerHow feedback helps or harms developmentThe cognitive triangle. Thoughts, feelings, behaviorsPractical tools parents and coaches can use immediatelyHow to keep kids in love with the game while still competingAbout our guestsDr. Jonathan Jenkins is a sports psychologist who has worked with professional teams, including the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox, and is part of the Harvard Medical School teaching community.Dr. Kimberly O’Brien works at the intersection of athlete mental health and performance and has been affiliated with Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard programs.Together, they are the authors of Mentality Wins, a practical framework built around four pillars. Focus, Flow, Finish, and Flourish.ResourcesMentality Wins book and resources: https://www.mentalitywins.com(00:00) - The Hidden Cost of Elite Youth Soccer (02:05) - Constant Evaluation and Playing Afraid (06:48) - The 2% Difference. Mental Not Physical (11:32) - Fear of Mistakes and Performance Anxiety (16:10) - Comparison Culture and Identity (21:05) - Feedback That Builds or Breaks Kids (26:18) - The Cognitive Triangle Explained (31:44) - Parents, Coaches, and the Sideline Problem (36:52) - The Car Ride Home. Comfort or Solutions (42:30) - Focus, Flow, Finish, Flourish (49:10) - Applying the Mental Game at Home and Training (57:40) - What Parents and Coaches Should Take Away Click here to view the episode transcript.

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