Modern Soccer Coach Podcast Mental Health, Emotional Intelligence Development, Leadership and Coaching with Sue Parris
Sep 4, 2025
Join emotional welfare specialist Sue Parris, who has dedicated nearly 15 years to enhancing mental health in football. In this engaging discussion, she clarifies that mental health is an ongoing journey, not just tied to illness. Sue reveals the complexity of football environments, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and authentic communication. She also warns against common mistakes coaches make. Discover how creating safe spaces and fostering emotional intelligence can transform coaching and player well-being in sports.
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Emotional Welfare Is About Safety
- Emotional welfare means creating emotionally safe, congruent environments where people can be authentic.
- Safety, trust and feeling valued are prerequisites for players and staff to thrive.
Mental Health Is A Continuum
- Mental health is a continuum everyone lives on, not just the absence of illness.
- Normalising emotions helps people regulate them and reduces fear around seeking help.
Trust Revealed Hidden Crises
- Sue noticed more young men confiding in her as she built trust at Brighton, revealing hidden emotional struggles.
- She saw crises (suicide plan, severe eating disorder) that prompted developing a formal strategy.