Coaching Culture 400: Championship Secrets: How to Coach Your Team Through High-Pressure Moments | Alex Auerbach Pt 1
May 11, 2025
Joining the conversation is Alex Auerbach, a performance psychologist with experience in the NBA and NFL, who recently worked with the Toronto Raptors. He shares powerful insights on what distinguishes good teams from champions, particularly during high-pressure moments. Alex emphasizes open communication about emotions to enhance team performance and discusses strategies to reframe pressure into a positive force. He also highlights techniques for mindfulness, helping athletes focus on the present to unlock their potential.
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Discuss Nervousness Openly
- Surface players' nervousness by facilitating open conversations before high-pressure events.
- This helps reduce fear through shared experiences and mutual support among teammates.
Facilitate Vulnerable Team Talks
- Facilitate team discussions by asking good questions and then listening quietly.
- Use vulnerability as a leader to set an example and encourage player openness.
Reframe Pressure Positively
- Reframe pressure as a privilege and an opportunity rather than a threat.
- Encourage players to play to win by embracing excitement and opportunity, not just fear of losing.
