As both a trauma therapist and a lifelong athlete and sports fan, I often find myself thinking about how these worlds intersect. It can be heartbreaking to watch talented athletes disengage on the field or lose their composure in high-intensity moments. In those times, I can’t help but wonder: Is this athlete’s trauma history surfacing right now?
While we can’t always know for certain, we do know this: according to the World Health Organization, approximately 70% of people will experience a traumatic event in their lifetime. With that in mind, it’s reasonable—and wise—to assume that trauma-informed coaching is not just helpful but essential. When we coach in ways that support nervous system regulation and emotional safety, we create an environment where athletes can access their full potential.
Why Sport Is Uniquely Suited for Healing
Sport offers a powerful opportunity to support healing. It combines rhythmic movement, relational connection, and the embodied nature of physical activity—all elements that can help release stored trauma. Coaches have a unique opportunity to maximize this potential by learning what to look for and being intentional about fostering a team culture that promotes safety, trust, and emotional regulation.
1. Attachment: Relationships Matter
Your relationship with your athletes is foundational. Many coaches were once athletes themselves and were shaped by mentors who made a difference in their lives. Don’t underestimate your own impact. Take time to observe your players during warmups: body language, energy levels, mood shifts—are there changes or signs of distress? Just noticing without judgment can inform how you structure your practice.
Flexibility is key. If your team seems off, it’s okay to pivot from your original plan. Adjusting the day’s structure based on the emotional and physical tone of your players is not a weakness—it’s a strength rooted in attunement.
2. Emotion Regulation: Model and Teach It
Athletes learn emotional regulation best through example. Tune in to your own emotions before, during, and after practice. Use regulated breathing, take breaks, and model self-awareness. When needed, it’s okay to step aside for a moment and show your athletes what it looks like to care for your emotional health.
Incorporate tools like tapping, stretching, breathwork, and visualization into practices. These aren’t just pre-game rituals—they are nervous system interventions. Practice them regularly and encourage athletes to use them during games.
Remember: your tone of voice matters. For those with trauma histories, especially involving verbal or emotional abuse, tone can be triggering. Maintain calm and warmth—even when giving constructive feedback.
Communicate clearly: "I’m disappointed in the outcome, but I’m not disappointed in you." This distinction is essential for trauma survivors, who often internalize mistakes as reflections of their self-worth.
3. Create a Culture of Safety and Belonging
Decide before the season begins what kind of culture you want to build. Clearly communicate values like positivity, mutual support, and resilience. Reinforce these values consistently.
Pay attention to both ends of the emotional spectrum. While emotional outbursts may be more visible, shutting down is just as important to recognize. Disengagement, withdrawal, or going quiet can signal dysregulation just as much as escalation.
Being part of a team can be a profound part of healing. While trauma isolates, connection repairs. Group belonging can be therapeutic in itself.
Give athletes choices when possible. Something as simple as letting them choose between two warm-up drills can support autonomy and agency—key ingredients in trauma recovery.
4. Equity Over Equality
Trauma-informed coaching means recognizing that not every athlete needs the same thing. Some may need more breaks, more support, or a different kind of encouragement. Think equity over equality: What does this individual need to feel safe and successful?
Check in one-on-one when needed. Keep an eye out for shifts in behavior or mood. If something feels off, it may be appropriate for you or an assistant coach to connect with a parent or caregiver. It’s okay for athletes to have different prescriptions for success.
5. Use Rhythm, Music, and Flow
Don’t overlook the power of rhythm—music, movement, and flow can all help regulate the nervous system. Use music during practice. Build routines that feel predictable yet dynamic. Rhythm helps athletes feel grounded.
Final Thoughts
Trauma-informed coaching doesn’t require you to be a therapist. It simply means coaching with curiosity, compassion, and flexibility. It’s about understanding that behavior is communication and that behind every athlete is a human being with a story.
By creating emotionally safe environments, modeling regulation, and building strong connections, coaches have the power not just to develop talent—but to help heal trauma.
Because when athletes feel safe, they don’t just play better—they thrive.
Written by Dana Hartman-Ngaloafe, LMFT