If you’re a student-athlete who feels off before games—low energy, nerves, doubt, or chaos—and you want to show up calm, confident, and focused… or you’re a parent who wants to support your athlete before games without making things worse, this tool gives you a game-day advantage.

What Is This Tool?

The Pre-Game Energy Scan is a simple reflection that takes 2–3 minutes before a game or practice to check in with yourself: physically, mentally, and emotionally.

It’s adapted from Bill Beswick’s performance mindset system in Focused for Soccer, where he teaches athletes to observe—not ignore—their current state.

“Confidence, motivation, and energy fluctuate all the time. The key is noticing where you are and learning how to shift.” — Bill Beswick

Instead of hoping to feel ready, athletes create readiness through awareness and action.

Why It Matters for Athletes

Confidence isn’t about always feeling perfect.

It’s about knowing how to get yourself back to a good state—even when you wake up flat, anxious, or off.

Athletes who learn to manage their energy don’t ride the emotional rollercoaster. They drive the train.

3 Simple Steps for Teen Athletes

1. Take 60 Seconds to Scan

Before a game or practice, ask yourself:

  • 🧠 Mental: Am I focused or distracted?
  • ❤️ Emotional: Am I confident or anxious?
  • ⚡️ Physical: Am I energized or sluggish?

Rate each one from 1–10.

2. Pick One Thing to Shift

Ask: “What can I do to move just one of these up a level?” Examples:

  • Mental → “I’ll focus on 1 simple intention: support my teammates.”
  • Emotional → “I’ll use music to feel confident.”
  • Physical → “I’ll bounce, breathe, and get blood moving.”

3. Build Your Ritual

Your routine becomes your reset. Whether it’s deep breathing, a pump-up playlist, prayer, or visualization—own something that brings you back to your best.

Athlete Reminder

Champions don’t wait to feel good.

They do the work to feel good.

“Your mindset can shape your readiness to perform.” — Bill Beswick

Parent-Specific Action Steps

1. Ask Check-In Questions Without Pressure

Try these the morning of or on the drive:

  • “Where’s your head at today?”
  • “How’s your energy feeling—anything you need?”

Keep your tone calm and curious—not performance-focused.

2. Support Their Rituals

If they use music, mantras, quiet, or movement, honor it. Don’t interrupt or add last-minute strategy unless they ask.

3. Say a Centering Phrase Before They Compete

Here are a few confidence-building examples:

  • “I love watching you compete.”
  • “Play your game—trust yourself.”
  • “No matter what happens, I’m proud of how you show up.”

All the Best!

Luke