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Win from Within
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MENTAL STRENGTH COACHING FOR ATHLETES
Based in Spokane, WA, Heart First Mental Strength Academy is dedicated to helping athletes build the mindset and confidence needed to reach their full potential in sports and life. Through resilience, focus, and inner drive, they learn to excel both on and off the field. #CompeteHeartFirst
what athletes are saying
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UNLOCK YOUR ATHLETE'S TRUE POTENTIAL
Psychological safety is the #1 driver of successful teams, and the competitive edge that separates good athletes from great ones is mental toughness and emotional mastery.
By strengthening an athlete’s mindset, we cultivate the resilience, confidence, and laser-sharp focus needed to dominate in competition and thrive in life.
THIS IS FOR YOU IF...
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​You’re an athlete who’s putting in the work day in and day out—on the field, in practice, and in the weight room—but you’re frustrated that your progress isn’t matching your effort. You want to see more consistency and faster development in your performance.
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You find yourself stuck on mistakes, coaching decisions, or moments where the pressure gets the best of you. You’re ready to break free from these mental barriers and perform at your best when it matters most.
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You’re looking for a way to maintain high levels of motivation, to stay focused, and to find that flow or “zone” where you can consistently perform at your highest level.
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You’re a coach or parent who’s tired of watching your athlete fall short of their potential because they lack the confidence or mental toughness to push through challenges. You’re searching for a proven system that will help them break through their limitations and develop the mindset of a champion.
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You’re an athlete who refuses to settle for average. You’re hungry for that competitive edge—the mindset and mental skills that will take you from good to great, and from great to elite.
WORK WITH US
individual athletes
1:1 Mental Strength Coaching
Provides individual athletes personalized attention and customized strategies to unlock their full potential.
Through tailored mental performance techniques, goal-setting, and mindset training, we help athletes:
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Overcome mental barriers
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Enhance focus
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Develop the resilience needed to excel under pressure
This program is perfect for athletes who are ready to take their game to the next level and are committed to building the mindset of a champion.
*Offered in-person and virtually.
Book a free clarity call today to learn more and see how we can help your athlete gain the mental edge they need to compete at their highest level!
teams & Coaches
Competitive Edge for Teams
An incredibly powerful way to elevate a group of athletes or your entire team’s performance and culture.
We offer team packages, allowing groups of athletes to go through the program together. By participating as a team, athletes not only develop individually but also:
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Strengthen team dynamics
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Improve communication and connection
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Increase collective resilience
This shared experience fosters a stronger bond, improves team morale, and helps teams overcome challenges together, creating a unified group that performs mentally and physically at its best.
*Offered in-person and virtually.
Book a free clarity call today to learn more and see how we can help your team gain the mental edge they need to compete at their highest level!
​PROGRAM OUTCOMES
Mental Resilience
Develop the strength to stay composed and confident under pressure, avoiding breakdowns and maintaining self-belief.
Mental Clarity
Break free from overthinking and distractions, achieving a clear, focused mind that enhances your performance.
Boosted Confidence
Cultivate a strong sense of self-belief, enabling you to approach every challenge with unwavering confidence and decisiveness.
QuickER Recovery
Build the ability to quickly recover from setbacks, maintain your passion for the game, and push through challenges.
Present and Focused
Learn to stay locked in on the present moment, effortlessly moving on from mistakes and maintaining focus.
Stronger Teammate
Become a better teammate by overcoming personal mental battles, contributing positively to team morale and supporting others.
ATHLETE tAKEAWAYS
"Recognizing my wins builds confidence."​
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"I am not defined by my mistakes, but by my response and next action."
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meet ryan sawyer
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founder & master coach
Ryan is a Former National Champion Collegiate Football Coach turned Mental Strength Coach for Athletes. He played and coached football at Central Washington University and then went on to be the Defensive Line Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Eastern Washington University from 2008-2015.
Since leaving college coaching, Ryan has become a sought-after Mental Strength Coach and Speaker, teaching Mental Toughness and Resilience programs to many different organizations, including Club Sports Teams, Universities, First Responders, and many other organizations.
coaching credentials
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Former National Champion College Football Coach
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Founder of Heart First Mental Strength Academy
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Author of the Books "Choice Point" & "We Can Do Hard Things"
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Master Coach & Creator: Integrated Mindset & Competitive Edge for Athletes
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Certified Unbeatable Mind Coach
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Certified Mental Performance Mastery Coach
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Certified Kokoro Yoga Instructor
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Certified Quantum Living Process Facilitator
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Certified Oxygen Advantage Instructor (Breath for Performance)
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Certified Meditation and Mindfulness Instructor
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Certified Safe Sound Protocol (SSP)
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Certified Neuro Coach with Mindset Neuroscience Neurotraining Institute
MEET OUR coaching team
Meet the dynamic professionals who are leading the way in mental strength coaching, personal development, and athletic mentorship. Each of these individuals brings a unique blend of expertise, passion, and commitment to empowering others to achieve their highest potential.
trusted by
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