Saire Davis, the founder of Saire Davis Academy, is dedicated to empowering youth athletes, particularly female lacrosse players in the Atlanta and Johns Creek communities. As a two-time author and former Division 1 athlete, Saire understands the unique challenges young athletes face today, including pressures related to performance, self-esteem, and the intense scrutiny from coaches, peers, and parents.
He has a remarkable track record of mentoring 10 USA Lacrosse All-Americans and helping over 100 athletes secure scholarships via mindset and skills development, including Johns Creek High School Senior Maddie Tredway who has committed to play Division 1 lacrosse at Lindenwood University in St. Charles Missouri. Saire has been working with Maddie for a few years on footwork and mental toughness as she plays both Varsity Flag Football and Lacrosse. Saire's expertise is both profound and impactful and he recognizes that today's youth athletes often contend with unrealistic expectations, leading to mental health concerns such as anxiety, burnout, and depression. According to a 2019 study, about 35% of elite athletes report mental health issues, underscoring the critical need for mental fitness training.
Saire’s coaching approach is characterized by positivity and motivation. He emphasizes the importance of mental resilience alongside physical preparedness, helping athletes turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Saire believes that true victory comes from within, encouraging athletes to compete against their own limitations, thereby fostering a strong sense of self-worth and mental toughness.
In addressing the factors contributing to mental burnout among young female lacrosse players, Saire highlights five key reasons:
- High Expectations and Pressure to Perform: The pressure to excel can be overwhelming, leading to burnout.
- Lack of Mental Resilience Training: Many athletes are not equipped with the mental tools needed to handle stress and setbacks.
- Comparing Themselves to Others: Social comparisons can diminish self-esteem and increase anxiety.
- Overtraining and Lack of Recovery Time: Physical exhaustion without adequate rest can contribute to mental fatigue.
- Isolation from Social Support Networks: Lack of connection with peers and mentors can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and stress.
Saire's commitment to addressing these issues extends beyond lacrosse; he provides invaluable support to athletes across various sports, including football and softball. His work with educational institutions and corporate partnerships helps individuals develop mental toughness and confidence, essential traits for success both in sports and life.
By focusing on "winning the game within," Saire Davis Academy offers a comprehensive approach to athlete development that prioritizes mental well-being alongside athletic achievement. Through effective mentorship and dynamic coaching techniques, Saire is setting the stage for youth athletes to thrive, cultivate their passion for sports, and build resilience that can last a lifetime.
And the best part is that the Johns Creek community has access to his program which can be done individually or as a group.
He emphasizes the importance of mental resilience alongside physical preparedness, helping athletes turn challenges into opportunities for growth.