Valerie R Alston

Valerie Alston is a former Division 1 softball player at the University of Minnesota who played on competitive travel softball teams in Southern California from ages 9-18. With a High School State Championship and multiple top ten finishes at national tournaments under her belt, she understands the pressures of playing a sport at the highest levels. She holds a Master's degree in Sport Psychology and Mental Health from Boston University and has been working with the U.S. Army since 2008, teaching soldiers how to perform under pressure and build resilience in high-stakes environments. These lessons and those she learned as an athlete inform her success today. As the author of “Confident, Calm and Clutch: How to Build Confidence and Mental Toughness for Young Athletes” and “How to Teach Mental Skills to Athletes” Valerie brings her positive attitude and upbeat nature to the task of helping others. Her unique blend of experience as a high-level athlete, Certified Mental Performance Consultant and Master Resilience Trainer-Performance Expert for the military, inspires young athletes and their families to thrive. Her passion for empowering young people stems from her own athletic journey and her deep belief that mental toughness is the key to success in both sports and life. She has worked with a range of athletes and now offers coaching, online courses, and workshops designed to build resilience, confidence, and mental toughness. Valerie's work doesn't stop with athletes—she also trains parents and coaches to understand the vital role they play in fostering mental toughness. Through her proven Mental Edge Formula, she helps families navigate the pressures of youth sports while maintaining strong relationships and developing the skills necessary for success in life. Valerie, who is passionate about tackling the rising trends of anxiety and depression in today's youth, ensures that athletes develop the mental tools they need to overcome challenges, build confidence, and thrive. Valerie lives in North Carolina, where she continues to inspire athletes, parents, and coaches with her expertise and dedication to mental performance. Follow Valerie Alston on her professional website and social media @valstoncoaching for the latest insights, tips, and updates on transforming your mental game.