Inside the Journey—Working with the USA Performance Psychology Team

Dr. Skip’s Note:

This article offers a personal, behind-the-scenes look at the experience of collaborating with the USA Performance Psychology Team, highlighting key lessons, challenges, and growth moments that resonate with all athletes and coaches striving for peak performance.

Joining the USA Performance Psychology Team

When I was selected to be a part of the USA Performance Psychology Team for their preparation to support Team USA in the Tokyo Deaflympics, I knew I was stepping into a group of world-class minds dedicated to helping athletes reach their full potential.

What I didn’t realize was just how much I would learn—not only about mental performance, but about myself, teamwork, and the power of shared purpose.

The Power of Collaboration

1. Diverse Perspectives, One Mission
Working with psychologists, coaches, and athletes from different backgrounds brought a new perspective to every conversation. We each had our own styles and philosophies, but our shared mission—supporting athletes at the highest level—united us.

2. Learning from the Best
Every conversation I had with the USAPP members was a learning experience. It’s helped me grow as a team leader as well as a colleague. Learning how to shift gears and find ways to make people around me BETTER…that was a challenge.

The environment pushed me to grow and refine my own approach. I was constantly inspired by how other team members translated complex psychology into practical tools athletes could use every day.

3. Mutual Respect and Trust
Trust was the foundation. We challenged each other’s ideas, offered honest feedback, and celebrated every breakthrough—no matter how small.

Lessons in Mental Performance

1. The Importance of Individualization
No two athletes are the same. The best results came from tailoring tools and strategies to each person’s unique strengths, challenges, and communication style.

2. Consistency Over Flash
Championship-level performance isn’t built on motivational speeches or quick fixes. It’s the result of small, consistent habits: journaling, visualization, reflection, and intentional routines.

3. Embracing Vulnerability
Even at the elite level, athletes and coaches face doubts and setbacks. The most powerful moments came when someone was willing to be vulnerable—asking for help, sharing a struggle, or admitting uncertainty. That’s where real growth happened.

Overcoming Challenges Together

1. Communication Barriers
As a deaf professional, I encountered moments where communication wasn’t seamless. But the team’s openness to learning ASL, using visual aids, and adapting meeting formats made a huge difference. It was a reminder that accessibility is everyone’s responsibility.

2. Navigating High-Pressure Moments
Preparing athletes for major competitions meant managing stress not just for them, but for ourselves as a team. We leaned on each other, shared strategies, and kept the focus on process over outcome.

3. Balancing Science and Humanity
It’s easy to get caught up in data and metrics. The team never lost sight of the human side—reminding each other that behind every stat is a person with a story, a dream, and a unique path.

Takeaways for Every Athlete

• Surround yourself with people who challenge and support you. Growth happens in community.

• Prioritize the basics—sleep, routines, honest reflection—over flashy trends.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help or admit when you’re struggling. Vulnerability is a strength.

• Advocate for your needs, especially around communication and accessibility. The right team will meet you halfway.

• Celebrate progress, not just results. Every step forward matters.

Keep working hard.

Till next time,

Dr. Skip