
What happens when the athlete who used to shine under the lights suddenly finds themselves on the bench? In this episode, Coach Antoinette tackles a tough—but incredibly common—moment in every athlete’s journey: the shift from starter to backup.
If you've ever been the go-to player and then had your role change—this one’s for you. Whether you're navigating high school to college transitions or adjusting to team dynamics that no longer center around you, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and actionable tools to help you thrive in your new role.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
💡 Why role changes can feel like an identity crisis—and why that’s normal
💡 How to redefine success when you’re not getting the spotlight
💡 5 powerful mental tools to stay confident, ready, and focused
💡 What parents and coaches can do to support athletes through this transition
💡 Why the bench isn’t a punishment—it’s a proving ground
Whether you’re the athlete, a parent, or a coach, this episode will help you see that real mental toughness isn’t built in the spotlight—it’s built in the shadows.
To learn more about mental performance coaching and how it can help you improve your performance both on and off the field, visit https://antoinettedatoc.com and click on BOOK A FREE SESSION.
Follow Me on Social Media:
THE MENTAL WEIGHT ROOM
Instagram @thementalweightroompod
ANTOINETTE DATOC MENTAL PEROFRMANCE COACHING, LLC
Email Coach Antoinette directly: antoinette@antoinettedatoc.com