From the perspective of a former Basketball Coach and Math Teacher, Matt Ryder, Director of Athletics at Maine South (IL) High School, shares his view on why faculty should be forming personal connections with athletes. Ryder reflects on his coaching journey and the evolution of his own approach to address the unique challenges today’s youth face. His philosophy emphasizes the importance of coaches and teachers who connect with and support their players entirely.
Supporting Student Mental Health & Emotional Well-Being
From anxiety and depression to social media stress and questions of belonging — today’s student-athletes are facing incredible mental stressors. ADs are training coaches, creating referral pathways, supporting injured athletes, and balancing compassion with policy to fight against one of the most complex challenges in modern-day schools.
