The first in our SPINw Consultant interview series…
What they’re saying: Testimonial from a College Wrestler:
“I was truly blessed to have gotten the opportunity to work with Jimmy. He helped me get out of the slump I was in. We went over various methods to help me relax and realize that wrestling doesn’t control my life as I once thought it did. He showed me there is life outside ofwrestling and in order to excel and accomplish my goals, I needed to relax, have fun, and reward myself. He has helped me outside of my sport as well, and he continues to help me today even though we are several states away.”
Q: How do you work with athletes?
A: Sport psychology is an educational process that uses scientific research, philosophy, and technique to help athletes learn to perform at a higher level. It is not a magic pill that just makes you better; as an athlete, you can’t look for the quick fix.
I apply my knowledge of sport psychology and practical experience to help athletes develop and practice new skills so that they can make positive changes, move toward their potential, and make sure they are having fun.
I also work with recreational athletes, coaches, business professionals, and artists to help them achieve personal and professional successes (e.g., coping with life stress, improving time-management, setting attainable goals, communicating better with family members, teammates, coaches, co-workers, and friends).
Q: What can an Individual athlete expect from a session with you?
A: Dedicated athletes spend countless hours physically preparing for competition; however, seldom do they set aside the necessary time to mentally prepare.
I help athletes develop a balance between mind and body so that they can achieve consistency and increase personal performance. I feel that individual sessions help athletes reduce stress by having a confidential place to process challenges.
Q: What is your favorite part of working with athlete?
A: Seeing an athlete’s smile because they feel confident and enjoy competing in their sport.
Q: How do you approach team sessions?
A: I like this quote:
“The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the
greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don’t play together, the
club won’t be worth a dime.” -Babe Ruth
I work with teams to help them identify strengths that individuals bring to the team and areas where they need to grow. I also help teams to improve communication among team members and coaches, and to build stronger team cohesion.
Q: What is your favorite part of working with a team?
A: During team building exercises it is great to see athletes communicating in a positive and constructive manner. If a team has really built a strong sense of trust, you can see that athletes understand their role on the team and leaders emerge from the group.
