So many adults involved in sports say they want what is best for athletes — but too often, the systems around them are still creating more pressure than support.
In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with Holly Hensley, a longtime school counselor, former collegiate athlete, and parent of two teenage athletes, for a timely conversation about why stress and mental health struggles seem to be rising so quickly in youth sports. Drawing from 19 years of counseling experience, her own athletic background, and what she sees now as a sports parent, Holly offers honest insight into the places where sport culture is falling short — and what adults can start doing differently.
This episode is especially valuable for parents, coaches, and anyone who wants to better understand the emotional reality many young athletes are carrying today.
Why So Many Athletes Feel Overwhelmed
One of the strongest themes in this conversation is that the current sports environment is asking a lot from young athletes.
Holly talks about why stress and mental health concerns may feel more visible than ever, including the pressure to perform, over-identification with sport, constant comparison, and the emotional weight many athletes carry without ever fully expressing it. Her perspective helps connect the dots between what adults may see on the outside and what athletes are often experiencing internally.
This part of the conversation is a strong reminder that mental health struggles do not always come from one major event — they are often built from repeated pressure over time.
Where Adults Can Do Better
Holly’s message is not about blame. It is about awareness.
She speaks to the roles parents, coaches, and other adults play in shaping the athlete experience and where those adults may need to pause, reflect, and adjust. Whether it is the language being used, the expectations being placed on kids, or the way adults respond to mistakes and setbacks, small things can have a major impact.
Her perspective makes it clear that when adults get healthier and more intentional in how they lead, athletes often feel safer and more supported.
Helping Athletes Feel Seen and Supported
Another important part of the conversation is the need to create environments where athletes feel seen as whole people, not just performers.
Holly explains why emotional support, honest conversations, and healthy perspective matter so much — especially during adolescence, when identity is still developing. Athletes do better when they know they are valued beyond results, and that kind of support can change not just performance, but overall well-being.
What We Can Start Doing Now
This episode is practical, not just reflective.
Holly shares ideas for what adults can begin doing differently right now to reduce pressure and better support athletes emotionally. Her message is grounded in both lived experience and professional insight, which makes it especially helpful for families and coaches looking for a healthier way forward.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- Why stress and mental health issues may feel higher than ever in sports
Understanding the pressure many young athletes are carrying. - Where youth sports culture may be falling short
The patterns and expectations that can quietly create harm. - How parents and coaches can better support athletes
Leading with more awareness, perspective, and care. - Why emotional support matters just as much as physical development
Helping athletes feel valued beyond performance. - What adults can start doing differently right now
Practical ways to improve the athlete experience.
