‘Maggie’ Performance Coach Dr. Melissa White Shares Insights in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette!
PITTSBURGH, PA — Dr. Melissa White, a leading sports psychologist and coach of champions, delves into the challenges faced by young athletes in today's competitive sports landscape, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and community support.
Sharing her love for Maggie Vaults Over the Moon with one of her former athletes, Team USA squad member, Bridgett Guy Williams, who is a top contender for the 2024 Olympics.
Dr. White's expertise was on display this past weekend in a feature article published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, entitled, “Are the kids all right, amid the many demands of young athletes?” where she addresses the mental health challenges among today’s student athletes.
The piece, written by Hanna Webster, focuses on the delicate balance between academics and sports, and the impact on their mental well-being. Dr. White discusses the importance of addressing self-confidence to alleviate anxiety and enhance performance.
She also discusses the pressure athletes face in terms of self-image and comparison, particularly exacerbated by social media.
Dr. White is a coach and 6th grade teacher based in Western Pennsylvania. She holds a Master's degree in Exercise Science with a focus on Sports Psychology from California University of Pennsylvania. Additionally, she has earned a Doctorate degree in Sport and Performance Psychology from the University of Western States.
Currently, Dr. White serves as the coach for varsity pole vault and javelin at Hempfield Area High School, as well as the mental performance coach for the varsity football team. She firmly believes that for an athlete to reach their maximum potential, they require someone who believes in them. Only then can they truly believe in themselves.
‘Maggie’ has become a resource to introduce perseverance, grit, and empathy to mid-grade readers.
But Dr. White's influence doesn't stop there. She's also made significant contributions to the second edition of the beloved sports novel, "Maggie Vaults Over the Moon" by Grant Overstake. Dr. White's expertise shines through in the form of thought-provoking chapter discussion questions tailored specifically for young teens and preteens. These questions enhance the reading experience by encouraging readers to delve deeper into the themes and characters of the story, fostering a richer understanding and appreciation of the novel.
About Performance Edge Consulting
Performance Edge Consulting, led by Dr. Melissa I. White, trains athletes psychologically to perform at their maximum athletic potential. She focuses on fostering a positive psychological environment and encourages her clients to adopt a growth mindset. Her approach includes locating the positive aspects of the client's current routines, such as visualization techniques, self-talk, and attentional cues. She provides her clients with appropriate techniques for immediate implementation upon the initial session.
Dr. White is known for her enthusiasm and selfless dedication to helping her athletes gain their edge. She believes that sometimes all an athlete needs is for someone to believe in them. Her clients can count on her every step of the way. With her guidance, clients often see improvements after just one session. Performance Edge Consulting is ready to help you reach your maximum potential. Learn more.
About the Novel
"Maggie Vaults Over the Moon” tells the story of Maggie Steele, a Kansas farm girl who discovers solace and purpose in the daring sport of pole-vaulting. Hailed as one of the greatest track and field novels of all time by Citius Mag, this book is a testament to the resilience, determination, and transformative power of sports.
Coaches, teachers, and athletes alike are turning to "Maggie Vaults Over the Moon" for its ability to inspire and motivate. With Dr. White's chapter discussion questions added to the mix, this book becomes not just a story, but a tool for sparking meaningful conversations and deeper understanding among young teen and preteens. In addition, the foreword by Olympic Champion pole-vaulter Katerina Stefanidi adds more insights into being successful in sports and in life.
TEACHERS’ PICK!
Don't miss out on this enhanced reading experience—grab your copy of "Maggie Vaults Over the Moon" today and soar alongside Maggie on her incredible adventure! For information on discounts for bulk purchases for classrooms and libraries, or to learn more about hosting virtual author presentations by Overstake and Dr. White, contact us here!