#33 - The Real Win: What Nationals Taught Us About Success, Sport, and Life

Fresh off what may be her final Nationals as a youth volleyball coach, Sara reflects with Michelle on the lessons that mattered most—not the wins and losses, but the growth, resilience, and relationships built along the way. They discuss how controlling attitude and energy as coaches shaped their athletes’ experience, why fun and team culture matter more than the scoreboard, and how sport continues to teach life skills that extend far beyond the court. From overcoming adversity and embracing growth to finding your people and developing a lifelong love of sport, this episode is a heartfelt reflection on what success really looks like when the season comes to an end. 

Top 3 Takeaways

1. As coaches we have to control our attitude and energy while holding the vision of what the team and the players can be
2. Life skills from sport! Find your people and do hard things
3. Lifelong love of sport is the real goal. While school is 3-6yr of playing, Michelle has had over 20+ years of adult sport

BONUS - its all about the relationships