Changing the Game: What Families Need to Know About Club Volleyball Tryouts
The Club Volleyball tryout process can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right information and a proactive approach, families can navigate the system with clarity and confidence.
Why Self-Confidence Holds When Self-Esteem Erodes
Start with small wins. Practice new skills. Celebrate competence, not just identity. As your confidence grows, a more stable form of self-esteem — one not shaken by every failure or judgment — will naturally follow. In the face of adversity, it’s not who thinks highly of themselves that prevails, but who believes they can act effectively and adapt.
From Nervous to Excited: Reframing Nerves for Better Performance
Nervousness and excitement are two sides of the same coin. By choosing to interpret your nerves as excitement, you’re not denying your feelings—you’re redirecting them into something positive, powerful and productive.
Club Volleyball Showcases – Good Idea or Not?
The Club Volleyball Showcase is our answer to the confusion and chaos of traditional tryouts. It’s designed to help athletes who are new to volleyball — or new to the Edmonton area — get in front of club coaches in a more focused, supportive environment.
From Chore to Treasured: Driving Your Kids to Sports
One night, I decided to switch the word to "get," and suddenly, the task became a positive part of my day. By saying "I get to drive my daughter," my mindset shifted, leading to more positive changes in our time together. This simple change in language made me realize that these car rides were not just about transportation; they were opportunities for connection.
Food for Tournaments: A Family's Trial & Error
Packing the right foods for a volleyball tournament can make a significant difference in performance and recovery. With the proper balance of protein, carbs, and fats, you can ensure your athletes stay energized and ready to play their best. Happy packing and good luck at your next tournament!
Navigating Post-Game Conversations with Athletes
How does this relate to sports? Well, sports are stressful. The mind is working non-stop. Your athlete is not only thinking about what they need to do but also about the mistakes they made, being “benched,” and yes, the drive home with all of the advice that will be thrown at them. Their mind is pushing the limits of their window of tolerance. They need time to decompress and rebalance their blood sugar levels. They have just had a hard day at work and “need a minute.”
Thinking Again - Challenge Your Thought Process
“We learn more from people who challenge our thought process than those who affirm our conclusions. Strong leaders engage their critics and make themselves stronger. Weak leaders silence their critics and make themselves weaker.”
― Adam M. Grant
The Power of Resilience and a Growth Mindset
At Northern Lights Athletic Club, we like to talk about four powerful pieces in the journey of personal development: self-kindness, mindfulness, resilience, and a growth mindset. Each plays a crucial role in our well-being and helps us navigate life's challenges.