Lesson Plan

Mind Over Game Lesson Plan

Students will learn and apply sports mental health strategies—specifically positive self-talk and visualization—through discussion and a quick practice exercise to build resilience on and off the field.

Equipping students with mental skills helps them manage pressure, stay focused, and enhance performance. Early exposure fosters resilience, reduces stress, and supports well-being in sports and academics.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review Materials

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

3 minutes

Step 2

Key Strategies Discussion

4 minutes

Step 3

Guided Practice

5 minutes

Step 4

Wrap-Up and Reflection

3 minutes

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Lesson Plan

Mind Over Muscle

Students will learn and practice mental health strategies—specifically positive self-talk and visualization—to build resilience and improve performance under sports-related pressure.

Teaching mental health strategies early fosters resilience, reduces sports-related stress, and enhances focus and performance both on and off the field.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review Materials

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

3 minutes

Step 2

Key Strategies Discussion

4 minutes

Step 3

Guided Practice

5 minutes

Step 4

Wrap-Up and Reflection

3 minutes

lenny

Slide Deck

Sports Mental Health Strategies

Welcome students and set the stage. Emphasize that mental skills are as important as physical skills and preview today’s focus on two powerful strategies.

Why Mental Health Matters in Sports

Explain why mental health matters in athletic performance. Relate to times when nerves or doubt got in the way of success.

Positive Self-Talk

Define positive self-talk and share real examples. Invite a quick student example if time allows.

Guided Visualization

Walk students through each visualization step. Model a brief example: imagine the field, the sounds, the movements.

Discussion Prompt

Transition to discussion. Ask for volunteers and jot responses under the two headings on the board.

Practice & Reflection

Explain the practice activity and time limits. Circulate and support pairs as they work. Wrap up by inviting a few reflections.

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Worksheet

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Mind Over Muscle

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Jeremy L

Tier 1
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