Transforming Youth Sports: The You Matter Ankeny Classic Softball Tournament

In the final part of our series, host Valerie Alston engages in a deep conversation with Justin about the You Matter Ankeny Classic, a unique softball tournament focused on mental health and sportsmanship. Justin shares how he brought together counselors, coaches, and athletes to create an event that emphasizes character over competition. This episode of Car Ride Conversations for Sports Families explores the importance of mental health in sports and offers actionable insights for communities looking to replicate this impactful model. With discussion prompts and tips for parents, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in youth sports and mental wellness.

00:00 Introduction to the You Matter Ankeny Classic

00:23 Welcome to Car Ride Conversations

00:56 Justin's Perspective on Mental Health in Sports

01:10 Creating the You Matter Ankeny Classic

02:56 Tournament Highlights and Innovations

04:40 Encouraging Sportsmanship and Community

06:16 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

08:19 Discussion Prompts for Families

12:31 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

To reach out to Justin about starting a tournament or project like this email him at [email protected] 

To participate in the tournament please visit: https://usssa.com/baseball/event_home/?eventID=409341  or email the Ankeny Girls Softball Association at: [email protected] 

Discussion questions:

1. What does “You Matter” mean to you when it comes to sports and teammates?
2. The You Matter Classic gave the biggest trophy for sportsmanship. If you were designing an award for your team, what would it celebrate and why?
3. How do you think sports could look different if every tournament or season focused more on mental health and kindness?
4. What’s one simple way our family or team could make sports more fun and supportive for everyone?
5. How can we, as adults, help keep the joy in sports for kids especially when competition gets intense?

Thanks for joining me on Confident, Calm, and Clutch Car Ride Conversations! If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to the podcast so you never miss a moment. Share it with other parents or coaches who could use a little extra inspiration on the go.

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For more specific tips on building mental toughness, buy my book Confident, Calm and Clutch: How to build confidence and mental toughness for young athletes using sports psychology

If you are a coach looking for ways to build mental toughness into your practices then check out my coaching resources (books, assessments, conversation starters, community and more) here.

Parents join my Facebook group to Help Your Athlete Gain Mental Toughness for Parents

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Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email me: [email protected]

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