Positive Coaching Alliance

Positive Coaching Alliance is a national nonprofit organization that aims to create a positive, character-building environment for youth. A core belief is that when “done right,” sports can achieve the result of “better athletes, better people.”

Founded in 1998, PCA has established 18 chapters nationwide, collaborating with roughly 3,500 schools, and delivering more than 20,000 live group workshops. PCA founder Jim Thompson’s goal is to create a positive culture for kids to enjoy sports through research-based programs.

Among those programs is the Elm Tree of Mastery, where the key is to concentrate on what students can control instead of the outcome shown on scoreboards. Athletes also learn about their Emotional Tanks, which, akin to a car’s gas tank, allow individuals to go anwhere when full. Athletes with a full emotional tank are more able to stay optimistic and handle difficult situations. Other concepts are Honoring the Game and Development Zone, which provides a framework for behavior when winning or losing games—for not only students but coaches and parents as well.

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