Volume 25, Issue 20 | January 27, 2026

Student-Athlete Mental Health

We know that sports have a unique capacity to build character, but many young athletes also report that the pressures they face today can serve to tear them down. This paradox inspired the senior capstone project of student-athlete Caylin Gecy, who explored the mental health of high school athletes, sharing her own story while addressing the challenges faced by her peers. In the video to the right, Gecy shares what she learned and offers a key insight: it's critical that young athletes understand their "why" and embrace that each day they walk into practice or competition.

Gecy's project earned her the Rich O'Leary Community Sports Award at the 2025 Play Like a Champion Sports Leadership Conference. Her willingness to share her story and educate hundreds of student-athletes has made a lasting impact in her community. Through this newsletter, her words can inspire thousands of young athletes across the country.

If you're an athlete who is struggling, know that you're not alone. Listen to others like Caylin Gecy and talk to your coaches, parents and school counselors to find out what resources are available to you. Remember that while striving to achieve your personal and team goals can be really hard work, sports are also supposed to be fun. If that's not the case, understand that it's "okay to not be okay" and seek the guidance of trusted adults.

Whether you identify with this struggle or everything is currently great, make a commitment this week to lift up one of your teammates. Simple words or gestures of kindness and support can make a world of difference, so let someone know that you value his or her contributions to the team and you've "got their back", no matter what. Together, we can follow the example of Caylin Gecy, making sure that sports builds character, rather than tearing athletes down.

"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." ~ Hebrews 13:16

2026 Conference Registration

The 2026 Play Like a Champion Today Sports Leadership Conference is coming June 10-12th at the University of Notre Dame! Early-Bird Registration for this year's conference opens on Tuesday, February 3rd. We want you to be among the first to reserve your spot at this year's event, so watch your email and click-through once registration goes live. We're excited to unveil a terrific group of speakers and another thrilling schedule for 2026; plan to learn, connect and have a blast while enjoying the beautiful campus of the University of Notre Dame. Learn more about this year's conference by clicking the link below.

A Prayer for Athletes

May today there be peace within. May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith. May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones and allow your soul the freedom to play, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us. Amen.

Prayer credited to St. Teresa of Avila