🏈 Category 1: Tackling Big Thoughts
A thought says, “Something bad will happen.” What can we say back to that thought?
“Thanks, brain,” or “That’s just a thought, not a fact.”
If you’re nervous before a game, what’s something you could say to yourself like a hype rapper?
“I’ve got this,” “Deep breath, strong mind”
What’s one body signal that tells you anxiety is getting bigger?
Sweaty hands, tight tummy, fast heart
What kind of teammate do you want to be?
Kind, helpful, brave
What’s one small step you can take when anxiety shows up?
Breathe, name the thought, ask for help
What if your brain keeps repeating a scary thought over and over—what can help?
Notice it, name it, and let it float by like a cloud
What’s one kind thing you could say to yourself after a hard day?
“I tried my best,” “I’m learning and growing”
What helps calm your body down when your brain feels loud?
Cold drink, breath work, movement
What’s something you care about more than your anxious thoughts?
Friends, football, music, creativity
What’s something brave you did recently—even if it felt small?
(Personal response)
What’s a silly way to take power away from a scary thought?
Sing it in a rap voice or say it in a funny accent
Let’s write a short rap about calming down—what’s one line?
“Breathe in slow, let the worry go”
Can we control every thought or feeling we have?
No—and that’s okay. We can control what we do next.
What kind of person do you want to be remembered as?
Brave, caring, honest, strong
What’s a goal you have for this week—even a tiny one?
Talk to someone new, write a rap, ask for help
Do we have to believe everything our brain tells us?
Nope! Brains say all kinds of stuff that isn’t true
What’s one thought you want to rap back to your anxiety?
“You don’t run me, I’ve got my flow”
What’s something your brain says that you don’t have to fight, just notice?
“What if something bad happens?”
Which rapper or player has values you admire? What are they?
(Personal reflection—e.g., teamwork, passion, loyalty)
What do football players do after losing a game? What can you do after a hard moment?
Learn, rest, try again
What’s something a football player does with an opponent? What can we do with a tough thought?
Tackle, but with thoughts—we notice them, then refocus on our game plan
What’s your power word or phrase—like a rapper’s catchphrase to hype themselves up?
(Personal answer) – e.g., “Calm King,” “Peace Mode”
What’s one calming move you’d teach a football player who’s getting overwhelmed?
Shake it out, body scan, zone out to music
What helps you keep going even when things are hard?
Remembering your values and your “why”
What’s one thing you can do even with the anxious thoughts in your mind?
Live your life, play your game, keep moving forward