Hey coaches. And parents. And all humans involved in sport who know traditional sport isn’t the answer. Here’s the scoop.

Healing-centered sport isn’t just a fancy buzzword. It’s about creating an environment where kids can thrive, grow, and yes, actually heal through their athletic experiences. Our healing-centered sport checklist contrasts typical sports practices with healing-centered approaches.

Some highlights:

• Greet athletes enthusiastically (no more arms-folded standoffishness!)
• Ditch the power poses – stand in a circle with your team instead
• Keep your cool on the sidelines (we’re looking at you, overzealous referee-fighters)
• Connect, don’t isolate, when behavior challenges arise
• Fitness is for fun, not punishment (revolutionary, we know)

Remember, it’s not about being perfect. It’s about progress. Take a look at the checklist, see where you stand, and pick one area to improve. Your athletes will thank you – maybe not out loud, but in the way they grow, both on and off the field.

Want to dive deeper into the healing-centered sport movement? Check out more resources on our website, including the Nothing Heals Like Sport playbook. Let’s make sports a force for good, one practice at a time!

Questions? Want more on how to create inclusive youth sport environments? Reach out to Anthony, our Director of Training.