Fighting For Overtime: Addressing Anxiety and Achievements in Youth Sports

Are parents pushing their kids too hard on their pursuit of the next level? We discuss............ In this episode of Fighting for Overtime Youth Sports, Coach Tony sits down with Mike Odes (his former 7th Grade Teacher) — whose experiences on the field/court and in the classroom, set the stage for a positive foundation in youth sports. During this passionate conversation, Mike opens up about all...

When you feel lost and defeated as a youth athlete, who do you turn to?.......... In this episode of Fighting for Overtime Youth Sports, Coach Tony sits down with Taylor Cutillo (his daughter) —former softball player and current advocate for a positive foundation in youth sports. During this candid and heartfelt conversation, Taylor opens up about the struggles of growing up in competitive environ...

Is the game still fair when only the wealthy can afford to play? Are we pricing kids out?........ In this episode of Fighting For Overtime, we dive deep into the growing financial burden of youth sports. From club team fees and travel expenses to specialized training and equipment, the cost of participation is skyrocketing—and it's pricing out countless families. We hear from parents, coaches, and...

Are you fully prepared for the college recruiting process? Could your past impact your chances?....... In this episode, National College Scout, Mackenzie Bellows-Schissel, gives her experiences as a DIV 1 Player, DIV Coach, & Scout.  Follow Mackenzie's Work: : https://linktr.ee/mac_schissel

Where did the fun go when playing youth sports? Are kids over-lessoned causing their IQ to suffer? While sports may not be for every kid, being a part of a TEAM can be very beneficial for a young child if built the right way.  In this episode, Coach Tony talks about the misconceptions when it comes to coaching a youth sports team and why 70% of all young players are quitting sports before the age...

What happens when you no longer love the sport you're playing anymore? How do you cope with the backlash from your so-called supporters? LPGA Golfer Lexi Thompson had enough; if you're not careful, your child could be next!  In this episode, Coach Tony talks about mental burnout in youth sports and why it is taking a toll on our kids. He looks at two prominent figures in sports and uses their situ...

Do you feel today's young athletes are overworked and on the edge of burnout? How did you find balance as a youth athlete while still trying to be a kid? Former Softball Pitcher turned Real Estate Agent Mackenzie Marino joins Coach Tony to break it down. Before being a kick ass Real Estate Agent, Mackenzie Marino was a “BEAST” on the Softball Field. Her career spans 9+ years playing for Northampto...

How has youth sports changed the way young athletes approach the collegiate level? Head Men’s Basketball Coach of Reinhardt University, Justin Newton joins Coach Tony to break it down. Justin Newton is in his 4th season as head coach of Reinhardt Men's Basketball. The former Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association (GCAA) Men's Division I Basketball Coach of the Year from Andrew (Ga.) College was s...

Are you willing to give up your holidays for youth sports? Are youth sports making our priorities backwards? How can athletes take a break with all the pressure to constantly be on top?  In this episode, Coach Tony talks about the importance of taking breaks in youth sports and why it is important for your athlete’s overall physical and mental health. He also uncovers the story of holiday tourname...

Can a young athlete be noticed playing on a club team? What are the reasons kids switch programs year after year?  In this episode, Coach Tony dives into the complex world of team hopping and the often unrealistic expectations surrounding sports scholarships from all division levels. Join him as he unpacks the reasons why kids leave their specific teams, as well as why they stay. He also uncovers...

How would you approach a “daddy ball” situation with your child? Were you ever accused of playing "daddy ball" as a coach? In this episode, we explore the meaning of "daddy ball" by taking a deep dive into Coach Tony's own experiences and hearing some words from Jamaal Crawford who faced his own challenges too.  Every situation is different and in various situations, “daddy ball” may or may not be...

Did you make a decision as a parent, early in the youth sports journey that you still regret today? If so, what were the parameters around this decision? Why do you regret it? Would you go back and change it if you could?   These are questions Coach Tony asks himself each and every day. He made a decision 11 years ago that he still grapples with today. Tune in and follow the journey..................

What happens when you love the sport, but you’re not good enough to play with your friends? Playing sports enables you to create friendships you otherwise might not have formed. Sports is supposed to bring teens together from different schools, backgrounds, and communities. However, when competition shows out, you could be left out and wondering where to go next. Coach Tony discusses a situation h...