This summer, the Centre for Healthy Youth Development through Sport, in collaboration with Brock Sports and Recreation, launched Competitive Edge for youth athletes ages 11-15.
The camp aimed to support youth athletes in strengthening their mental performance through fun, engaging activities rooted in sports psychology. Throughout the camp, participants learned how mindset and emotions could shape their performance and developed confidence to face challenges both in and out of sport.
Camp Activities
Lessons and activities were chosen to teach focus, positive self-talk, thought control, imagery, goal setting, and more!
Activities included:
- Ropes course
- Water activities
- “Pros vs Joes”
- “Minute to Win It” games
- Obstacle Course
Camp Developers and Staff
The camp was grounded in the latest evidence-informed research and practice, developed by experts in the field, including
- Dr. Corliss Bean, Associate Professor with expertise in sport psychology and youth development through sport and Director of the Centre for Healthy Youth Development through Sport
- Matthew Marini, Wellness Navigator for Athletics and a Certified Mental Performance Consultant
- Philip Sullivan, Associate Dean, Faculty of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs, Professor in Kinesiology, and member of the Centre for Healthy Youth Development through Sport
- Mandisa Lau, MA in Recreation and Leisure Studies with a wealth of experience in camp programming and youth development through sport
- Steve Lidstone, Associate Director of Sports Performance
The camp was run by graduate students who all have expertise in sport psychology and are working toward becoming Certified Mental Performance Consultants.
When Does the Camp Take Place?
Camp sessions run:
- Stay tuned for dates for Summer 2027
Check out some highlights from the Competitive Edge 2026:
Please contact Corliss Bean ([email protected]) with any questions.
Testimonials
“Best program my son has attended so far…my son would choose this as his preferred camp.”
— Caregiver of Youth Camper
“[My son] said it was like sports camp but better because he got to compete against other top athletes. He appreciated the realistic approaches to dealing with the struggles of playing competitive sports.”
— Caregiver of Youth Camper
“It was a wonderful program. I loved the daily feedback and the videos. I saw my son come out of his shell. Thank you.”
— Caregiver of Youth Camper