Confidence and mental strength don’t happen by accident — they can be trained just like any physical skill.
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with Amber Selking, a sports performance expert known for helping athletes develop the mindset needed to perform at their highest level. Drawing from her work in leadership and sports psychology, Dr. Selking shares a powerful framework built around eight proven “plays” that athletes can use to improve confidence, manage emotions, and perform under pressure.
Whether you're an athlete, coach, or parent, this conversation offers practical tools for developing a stronger mental game.
The Mental Game Behind Peak Performance
Athletes often spend years training physically but overlook the importance of mental preparation.
Dr. Selking explains how the ability to manage thoughts, emotions, and focus can dramatically impact performance during high-pressure moments. When athletes learn how to train their mindset intentionally, they gain a powerful advantage in competition.
Mental preparation allows athletes to stay composed and confident when the stakes are highest.
The Eight Proven Plays
At the center of the conversation is Dr. Selking’s framework of eight “plays” designed to help athletes reach peak performance.
These principles focus on developing self-awareness, strengthening confidence, and learning how to reset quickly when challenges arise. By applying these plays consistently, athletes can build habits that support both performance and personal growth.
The framework provides a clear roadmap for athletes who want to strengthen their mental approach to competition.
Managing Emotions During Competition
Competition naturally brings pressure, nerves, and emotional highs and lows.
Dr. Selking shares strategies athletes can use to recognize and regulate their emotions so they can remain focused on the task at hand. Learning to manage emotional responses allows athletes to stay present, make better decisions, and perform with greater consistency.
Building Confidence That Lasts
Confidence isn’t something athletes either have or don’t have — it’s something that can be developed.
Dr. Selking explains how athletes can build lasting confidence by focusing on preparation, self-awareness, and intentional mindset training. When athletes understand how to strengthen their mental approach, they can step onto the field feeling more prepared and self-assured.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
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The eight proven “plays” for building confidence and focus
A practical framework for mental performance. -
How mindset training improves athletic performance
Developing mental strength alongside physical skills. -
How to manage emotions during competition
Staying calm and focused under pressure. -
How athletes can build lasting confidence
Creating habits that support belief and resilience. -
How to perform at your best when it matters most
Preparing your mind for peak performance moments.
About
Dr. Amber Selking
Dr. Amber Selking is a sports performance coach, leadership expert, and author who specializes in helping athletes and teams develop the mental skills needed for peak performance. Through her work in sports psychology and leadership development, she teaches athletes how to strengthen their mindset, manage pressure, and perform with confidence in high-stakes environments.
Connect with Dr. Selking:
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