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Turn Game Day Nerves Into Focused Energy: A Must-Read on Brainz Magazine

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Turn Game Day Nerves Into Focused Energy: A Must-Read on Brainz Magazine

Nerves on game day are as universal as the game itself. Whether it’s a young athlete gearing up for a big match or a seasoned pro stepping onto the court, that rush of adrenaline is a shared experience. But what separates good performances from great ones often boils down to this: how athletes handle those nerves.

That’s exactly what I explored in my latest article for Brainz Magazine, titled "How to Turn Game Day Nerves Into Focused Energy." In it, I share actionable strategies to help athletes harness their nerves and channel them into confidence and peak performance.

A Sneak Peek: Transforming Anxiety Into Power

Did you know that nerves are your body’s natural way of preparing for a high-stakes situation? Adrenaline sharpens your senses, boosts your energy, and prepares you for action. However, without the right tools, these nerves can spiral into overthinking or even performance anxiety.

In the article, I highlight stories from world-class athletes like Steph Curry and Megan Rapinoe, who have learned to embrace their pre-game jitters and turn them into an advantage. From Steph’s deep-breathing techniques to Megan’s consistent pre-match habits, these examples illustrate how powerful a shift in mindset can be.

Key Takeaways From the Article

Here are just a few insights you’ll find in the full article:

1. The Power of Pre-Game Routines

Discover how rituals like listening to a playlist, light stretching, or mental rehearsals create familiarity and calm under pressure. (Hint: Rafael Nadal’s water bottle placement routine has more to it than meets the eye!)

2. Breathing Techniques That Work

Learn about the 4-7-8 breathing method—a game-changing tool to calm nerves in real time.

3. Visualization for Success

See how mental rehearsal helps athletes like Michael Phelps prepare for the unexpected and stay composed during competition.

4. The Role of Parents and Coaches

Understand how your words, body language, and support can either ease or exacerbate an athlete’s nerves. Spoiler alert: Saying, “Just do your best” works wonders compared to emphasizing the game’s importance.

5. Take Control of Game Day Nerves

Managing nerves is a skill every athlete can master with the right tools and guidance. Whether it’s through a consistent routine, breathing techniques, or mindset shifts, these strategies can help athletes step onto the field with confidence and clarity.

Ready to dive deeper?

Head over to Brainz Magazine to read the full article, "How to Turn Game Day Nerves Into Focused Energy." Click here to read the article now.

Bonus Resource for Parents and Coaches

To complement the article, I’ve created a free guide packed with actionable tools to build mental toughness in youth athletes. It’s designed to help your athlete approach challenges with confidence and resilience—on and off the field.

Download your free guide here.

Join the Conversation

Want more tips and insights for building Confident, Calm, and Clutch athletes? Subscribe to my newsletter for practical strategies, inspiring stories, and exclusive resources delivered straight to your inbox.

Let’s help young athletes turn their nerves into their greatest strength—starting today!.

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Hi, I Am ValErie Alston

Certified Mental Performance Consultant

Resilience Trainer and Performance Expert for the Army

Author

Former D1 Softball Player

Crossfit Enthusiast

Avid Traveler and lover of food

And Awesome Auntie!