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Navigating the Mental Game of Recruitment

Rush College • January 29, 2025

CAP Chat Live!

Navigating the Mental Game of Recruitment

Host: Josh Tyler & Tyler Tomlinson

Guest: DJ McMoil, ACGMentalPerformance.com

In this 100th episode, the hosts celebrate their milestone while diving into the mental aspects of recruitment, focusing on how athletes deal with rejection and the pressure of being evaluated. They discuss the importance of managing pressure, transforming nerves into positive energy, and the role of mental performance coaching in the recruitment process.


DJ McMoil from ACG Mental Performance joins the conversation to provide insights on how athletes can navigate the challenges of recruitment effectively. This conversation delves into the mental performance aspects of athletes, particularly focusing on how to manage rejection and build confidence during the recruiting process.


The speakers discuss the fight or flight response in athletes, the importance of evidence-based confidence, and the need for resilience in the face of rejection. They emphasize the significance of self-awareness in goal setting and the necessity for athletes to separate their identity from the outcomes of their performance. The discussion highlights the challenges young athletes face in navigating the competitive landscape of sports and the mental strategies that can help them succeed.

Episode Overview

  • 100 episodes is a significant milestone for the podcast.
  • The mental aspect of recruitment is often overlooked.
  • Rejection is a common experience in the recruitment process.
  • Managing pressure is crucial for athletes during recruitment.
  • Nerves can be transformed into positive energy for performance.
  • Athletes often feel they are auditioning during recruitment events.
  • Coaches play a vital role in helping athletes manage pressure.
  • Virtual meetings are becoming essential in the recruitment process.
  • Understanding the psychological aspect of recruitment can aid athletes.


  • Pressure can be viewed as an opportunity for growth. The sympathetic nervous system activates during high-pressure situations.
  • Confidence is built on evidence of past performance.
  • Athletes should focus on their strengths to regain confidence.
  • Rejection is a natural part of the recruiting process.
  • Self-awareness helps athletes understand their motivations.
  • Setting tiptoe goals can help athletes reach their potential.
  • Resilience to rejection is crucial for long-term success.
  • Athletes often tie their identity to their performance outcomes.
  • Feedback from unbiased sources is essential for growth.
  • Parents play a significant role in how children handle rejection.


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About Rush Soccer

Formed in 1997, Rush Soccer is the largest youth soccer organization in the world with more than 60,000 players in 50 countries. Comprised of 175 clubs around the globe, Rush Soccer has cultivated a reputation of excellence on and off the field all while maintaining a local feel in the communities we serve. This expansive global footprint provides unparalleled opportunities for our entire player base to pursue pathways all the way to the highest level of professional soccer. Our breadth and depth of programs support our network of local clubs, coaches, staff, and partners. For more information about Rush Soccer, visit www.rushsoccer.com.

 

Media Contacts:
Rush Soccer Media Relations
Phone: (833) 546-7874
Email: marketing@rushsoccer.com

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