Fighting For Overtime: Addressing Anxiety and Achievements in Youth Sports

From Hall of Fame Player to Coach: The Truth Kids Need to Hear | F4OT Pod

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:14:13 -0300

What’s really going wrong in youth sports today?

On this episode of Fighting For Overtime, Tony Cutillo is joined by LaQuan Stallworth, a Hall of Fame player turned coach, to break down the realities athletes, parents, and coaches are facing right now.

From her journey through elite competition to coaching today’s generation, LaQuan shares real insight on development, pressure, and what it truly takes to succeed.

This episode covers:

Burnout vs love of the game
The role of parents in athlete success (and failure)
Why defense and effort still matter
What separates good players from great ones
The reality of chasing WNBA and pro dreams
Coaching philosophy and building confidence

If you're involved in youth sports in any way — this conversation is for you.

Follow LaQuan on IG HERE: www.instagram.com/lqstallworth/

***Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts. Also, please leave your stories in the comments or send them to me privately (fightingforovertime@gmail.com). Remember, you are not alone!

Follow the show here on all platforms: www.linktr.ee/fightingforovertime

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About Fighting For Overtime

In this podcast, we dive deep into the world of youth sports, exploring the highs and lows of young athletes. Join Coach Tony as he uncovers the triumphs and tribulations of young athletes striving for excellence amidst the pressures of competition, parental expectations, and societal demands. This program will offer listeners a personal connection to the challenges and triumphs faced by athletes and parents as they strive for success while grappling with their mental health.

From Community Fields to District Champions: Jason Scanlon’s Coaching Journey | F4OT Pod

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 23:20:24 -0300

Winning isn’t just built on talent — it’s built on culture, leadership, and consistency.

On this episode of Fighting For Overtime, Tony Cutillo sits down with Jason Scanlon, a husband, father of five, and one of the most respected youth soccer coaches in the Bucks County area.

Jason’s coaching journey spans:

8 years at Nativity of Our Lord School (3 AOP Championships)
9 years coaching girls travel soccer with Warminster Soccer Club
6 years as President of Warminster Soccer Club
Varsity Girls Head Coach at Villa Joseph Marie, finishing his first season 12–7–1 and winning a District Championship

In this episode, we go beyond the scoreboard and dive into:

⚽ What it really takes to build a winning culture
⚽ The evolution of youth sports and rising challenges
⚽ Coaching girls soccer and developing confident athletes
⚽ The balance between competition and development
⚽ The role parents play in shaping young athletes

Jason shares real insights from the sidelines — from grassroots soccer to championship moments — and why doing things the right way still matters more than anything.

If you’re a parent, coach, or young athlete, this is a must-listen episode packed with value, perspective, and truth.

Follow the show here on all platforms: www.linktr.ee/fightingforovertime

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About Fighting For Overtime

#FightingForOvertime #YouthSports #GirlsSoccer #SoccerCoaching #HighSchoolSoccer #WarminsterSoccer #VillaJosephMarie #CoachingLeadership #YouthAthletes #BucksCountySports #StudentAthletes #SportsParents #CoachingCulture

Inside the D1 Recruiting Grind: Tonja Pacheco's Strategy That’s Getting Coaches’ Attention | F4OT Pod

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 23:24:19 -0300

The college football recruiting journey is far more complicated than most families realize.

On this episode of Fighting For Overtime, host Tony Cutillo sits down with Tonja Pacheco, the creator of Football Mom 2027, to break down the real work behind getting athletes noticed.

After losing her husband and raising five children, Tonja turned her focus toward helping her son chase his dream of playing Division I football. Along the way, she discovered just how confusing, expensive, and often misleading the recruiting landscape can be for parents and athletes.

Through her platform Football Mom 2027, Tonja now shares the lessons she learned navigating the process—from social media strategy and exposure to avoiding recruiting scams and understanding how college coaches actually evaluate prospects.

In this episode, we discuss:

🏈 The real role parents play in recruiting
📱 Why Twitter is the most important recruiting platform
⚠️ Recruiting scams and overpriced services families must avoid
💪 The time, discipline, and strategy behind exposure
🥗 Nutrition, training, and athlete development
🧠 Mental health, burnout, and balancing the grind

Tonja also explains how consistent content, coach engagement, and strategic networking helped put her son on the radar of major college programs. This conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the recruiting process from a parent who is living it every day.

If you’re a parent, athlete, or coach navigating youth sports recruiting, this episode is packed with insight.

Follow Tonja on X: fbmom2027

Follow on IG: footballmom2027

Follow on the web: https://footballmom2027.com/www.footballmom2027.com

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About Fighting For Overtime

#FootballRecruiting #YouthSports #FootballMom2027 #CollegeFootballRecruiting #StudentAthlete #RecruitingTips #D1Football #HighSchoolFootball #AthleteDevelopment #SportsParents #FootballJourney #NIL #RecruitingProcess #TonyCutilloShow #FightingForOvertime

More Than Wins and Losses: Brea Ferraro on Coaching the Next Generation | F4OT Pod

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 21:03:26 -0400

On this episode of The Fighting For Overtime Podcast, Coach Tony sits down with Brea Ferraro, the Head Coach and newly appointed President of Lions Fastpitch Softball, to talk about the real world of youth sports, coaching, and developing confident athletes on and off the field.

Brea has lived every angle of the game, starting as a player in the organization her father helped build, growing into a coach, and now stepping into leadership as president. Her mission is simple: build competitive teams while creating a positive, supportive environment where athletes grow not just as players, but as people.

The conversation dives deep into the realities of modern youth sports; from the rising costs and burnout risks to the pressure athletes face from social media, recruiting expectations, and year-round competition.

Brea shares why attitude and body language matter just as much as talent, and how college coaches often notice the players who support their teammates and carry themselves the right way.

Tony and Brea also discuss:

Why confidence and team support start at practice
The importance of celebrating small wins for young athletes
Managing burnout in year-round travel sports
The rising cost of youth athletics
Why smaller organizations can provide huge opportunities
How coaches can create environments where players love coming to practice

At its core, this episode is about remembering what youth sports should really be about — growth, memories, teamwork, and building strong young leaders.

If you're a player, parent, or coach navigating youth sports today, this conversation is packed with real insight.

Follow Lions Fastpitch on FB Here: www.facebook.com/LionsFastpitch

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About Fighting For Overtime

#FightingForOvertime #YouthSports #FastpitchSoftball #SoftballLife #TravelSoftball #CoachingLife #WomenInSports #YouthSportsPodcast #SoftballCoaching #AthleteDevelopment #GirlsSports #TeamCulture #SportsParenting

From 6th Grade Dream to 1,000 Points: Avery Kocur’s Historic Rise at William Tennent | F4OT Pod

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 23:22:44 -0400

History was made at William Tennent High School — and Avery Kocur was right at the center of it.

On this episode of Fighting For Overtime, we sit down with Avery, one of only two players in the last 34 years to score 1,000 points for William Tennent, while helping lead the Panthers to their first Freedom Division title in 38 years. Her journey is a powerful example of what happens when passion, discipline, and belief come together.

What makes Avery’s story even more remarkable? She knew as early as 6th grade that basketball was the sport she wanted to pursue — and she never looked back. From youth gyms to historic milestones, Avery shares the work, mindset, and moments that shaped her path.

Now, she’s taking the next step with the Holy Family Tigers, continuing a journey built on dedication, family support, and a relentless love for the game.

In this episode we dive into:

• The grind behind becoming a 1,000-point scorer
• What it meant to bring a division title back to William Tennent after nearly four decades
• Youth sports pressure, commitment, and finding your identity through athletics
• Recruiting, the college decision process, and choosing Holy Family University
• Advice for young athletes chasing their own dreams

Fighting For Overtime highlights the real stories behind youth sports — the perseverance, the sacrifices, and the moments that shape athletes far beyond the scoreboard.

If you care about youth sports, leadership, and the mindset it takes to reach the next level, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

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About Fighting For Overtime

Building Stronger Kids: Jake Kirsch's Blueprint for Youth Sports Done Right

Sun, 07 Dec 2025 23:10:00 -0400

Youth sports are changing fast! There's more pressure, earlier specialization, and kids feeling college-level stress before they even hit middle school. But what if training didn’t revolve around wins, rankings, or chasing scholarships? What if it actually built confidence, character, and long-term growth?

In this episode of Fighting For Overtime, Coach Tony sits down with Jake Kirsch, Senior Director at ETS Performance and former Division I football player, to break down what healthy youth development should look like today. Jake helps lead programs that train thousands of young athletes nationwide, alongside pros like Adam Thielen, and he’s on a mission to redefine performance training from the ground up.

Together, we dive into:

How ETS builds strong, confident kids without burning them out
Long-term development vs. the “win now” mindset
The importance of community, mentorship, and positive reinforcement
What parents and coaches often get wrong about youth performance
How to spot the early signs of burnout — and stop it before it’s too late
Why kids today feel D1 pressure at 12… and how to change that

As a former D1 athlete, Jake shares personal experiences with pressure, expectations, and what he wishes he knew before entering high-level sports — plus how ETS builds environments where kids feel safe, supported, and excited to grow. This isn’t just about producing better athletes… it’s about raising stronger humans.

***Follow Jake and all of his training HERE: www.linktr.ee/coachjakekirsch

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About Fighting For Overtime

#YouthSports #ETSPerformance #MentalHealth #ConfidenceBuilding #YouthAthleteDevelopment #FightingForOvertime #SportsParenting #AthleteMindset #BurnoutPrevention #PositiveCoaching

Thriving Through the Teenage Years: Sophia Vale Galano’s Roadmap to Calming Anxiety | F4OT Pod

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 22:29:18 -0300

How can today’s teens truly thrive in a world filled with pressure, performance, and constant comparison?

In this episode of Fighting For Overtime, Coach Tony sits down with Sophia Vale Galano, Author of "Calming Teenage Anxiety," to explore the roadmap to helping teens not just survive — but thrive.

From managing stress to finding balance, Sophia shares how parents, coaches, and mentors can create a safe space for young people to grow with confidence and calm. We touch on...

Recognizing the early signs of anxiety
Understanding the pressures teens face today — on and off the field
Building healthy communication between parents and teens
The role of youth sports in shaping mental resilience
Creating a roadmap for teens to thrive emotionally and mentally

Whether you’re a parent, coach, or athlete, this conversation offers powerful insights into how to help teens perform — and live — at their best.

***Follow her work and get the book here: www.linktr.ee/Sophiavalegalano

#MentalHealthAwareness #YouthSports #TeenAnxiety #ThrivingTeens #FightingForOvertime #Parenting #Resilience #Wellness #MindsetMatters #mentalhealthawareness #YouthSports

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About Fighting For Overtime

Gia's Journey Part 1: Courage, Heart & Softball | F4OT Pod

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 20:09:18 -0300

This episode is dedicated to Gia, a 13-year-old softball player from Bucks County who represents the true meaning of heart and resilience.

Playing in the LSA league, Gia recently took the field for her final 14U game before undergoing brain surgery for a rare disease. Despite the challenges ahead, her love for the game never wavered — she even showed up to one last practice, smiling as always.

This is what Fighting For Overtime is all about — celebrating the spirit of young athletes who show us how powerful courage can be.

🙏 Join us in sending strength and support to Gia and her family.
Follow her journey: https://www.facebook.com/BCGSL

🎯 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts. Also, please leave your stories in the comments or send them to me privately (fightingforovertime@gmail.com). Remember, you are not alone! #mentalhealthawareness #YouthSports

🎯 Follow the show here on all platforms: www.linktr.ee/fightingforovertime

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About Fighting For Overtime

#FightingForOvertime #GiaStrong #YouthSports #Softball #BucksCounty #Inspiration #AthleteMindset #Courage #MentalToughness #SportsCommunity

Building a Championship Culture with Archbishop Wood’s HC Mike McDonald | F4OT Pod

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 22:23:45 -0300

How do you build a dynasty — and keep it alive year after year?

In this episode of Fighting For Overtime, Coach Tony sits down with Mike McDonald, Head Coach of the Elite Archbishop Wood Girls Basketball Program, to talk about the blueprint behind sustained success in youth sports.

From culture to chemistry, leadership to burnout, Coach McDonald shares how he’s built one of the most consistent programs in the region — and the life lessons that go beyond the court. We touch on....

Building a winning culture that lasts
Developing mental toughness and avoiding burnout
Teaching leadership and accountability
Overcoming adversity as a team
What true success looks like in youth sports

Whether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete — this episode is packed with insight on how to win the right way.

Follow Coach Mike and the Team on IG @coachmikemcd | @woodgirlsbball

Follow for schedules and team info: www.woodsgirlsbasketball.com

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About Fighting For Overtime

#YouthSports #HighSchoolBasketball #ArchbishopWood #Leadership #CoachingCulture #FightingForOvertime #GirlsBasketball #MentalToughness

When Anxiety Benches Young Athletes: Coping Strategies from Jennifer Licate | F4OT Pod

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 08:46:45 -0300

In this episode of Fighting for Overtime, Coach Tony sits down with award-winning author and school counselor Jennifer Licate to explore the mental health challenges kids face both in and out of sports. Drawing from her book, My Anxiety Is Messing Things Up, Jennifer shares powerful insights into perfectionism, stress, and the pressures young athletes feel to always perform.

We’ll discuss how parents and coaches can recognize signs of anxiety, strategies that help kids cope, and why storytelling can be a lifeline for children ages 9–14. If you’re raising or coaching a young athlete, this episode is packed with real-world tools and hope. Make to visit www.storiesbyjennifer.com for more information on here book series

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About Fighting For Overtime

The Cost of Commitment: What 26 Years of Softball Taught Coach Vicki Capozzi | F4OT Pod

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 09:45:56 -0300

Softball has been more than a game for Coach Vicki Capozzi — it’s been a lifelong teacher. With 26 years of experience as a player and now in her third year of coaching, Vicki opens up about the highs and lows of youth sports: the thrill of competition, the risk of burnout, and the sacrifices that come with commitment. She also shares her perspective on what parents can do to truly support their kids, and how coaches can keep athletes engaged while building confidence both on and off the field.

Follow The Lady Lions FB Page for Team Info: https://www.facebook.com/LadyLions

#YouthSports #SoftballLife #GirlsInSports #TravelBall #FastpitchSoftball #SoftballFamily #NextGenAthletes

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About Fighting For Overtime

F40T Rewind: When the Game Hurts: Taylor Cutillo on the Hidden Pain Behind Her Softball Career | F4OT Pod

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 08:08:41 -0300

When you feel lost and defeated as a youth athlete, who do you turn to?..........

In this episode of Fighting for Overtime Youth Sports, Coach Tony sits down with Taylor Cutillo (his daughter) —former softball player and current advocate for a positive foundation in youth sports. During this candid and heartfelt conversation, Taylor opens up about the struggles of growing up in competitive environments, learning to lead by example, and the mentors who made all the difference.

Taylor shares her personal journey through the highs and lows of youth athletics, the importance of finding your voice, and how sports can shape more than just skill—it can shape character. She speaks directly to the heart of what so many young athletes are feeling today. This powerful conversation dives into resilience, representation, and what it truly means to fight for overtime, on and off the field. A must-listen for parents, coaches, and young athletes alike.

***Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts. Also, please leave your stories in the comments or send them to me privately. Remember, you are not alone! #mentalhealthawareness #YouthSports

Follow the show on all formats here: https://linktr.ee/fightingforovertime

About Fighting For Overtime

Left Off the Roster: The Soccer Cut That Changed Everything | F4OT Pod

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 23:19:46 -0300

2 Years ago, my son didn’t make his School soccer team — but what stung the most wasn’t the cut itself, it was the way it was handled. After days of hard work and hope, the message was cold, impersonal, and left him feeling like all that effort didn’t matter. As a parent, watching him process not just the rejection, but the lack of care in how it was delivered, was heartbreaking.

In this episode, I share that experience and why the process of cutting kids from teams matters just as much as the decision itself. We’ll talk about:

🔔 How poor communication makes rejection even harder

🔔 Why kids deserve respect and encouragement, even in disappointment

🔔 The emotional toll on both players and parents

🔔 How coaches and organizations can handle cuts better

To every parent who’s had to console a child not because they didn’t make the team, but because of how it was done — this one’s for you. Cuts will always hurt, but the way they’re handled can either crush a kid’s spirit or help them grow.

🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations about youth sports, parenting, and resilience.

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About Fighting For Overtime

True Apologies & Twisted Rules: Breaking Down Softball's Latest Drama | F4OT Pod

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 23:14:49 -0300

A true apology story meets total pitching rule confusion! I break down what really happened, why the rule matters, and how it changes the game.

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About Fighting For Overtime

Adversity to Advantage: 140 Years of Women’s Soccer | Heidi Smith Introduces "Play On" | F4OT Pod

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:00:00 -0300

In this episode of Fighting for Overtime, Coach Tony sits down with veteran soccer player, coach, and author Heidi Smith to explore the 140-year journey of women’s soccer through the lens of her new book Play On! Heidi shares her experiences on and off the field, tackling tough conversations around sexism, identity, coaching challenges, and the mental health struggles facing today’s youth athletes.

From the emotional side of coaching girls, to the pressure kids face from parents and burnout in sports, Heidi offers insights that are both deeply personal and universally relevant. She also discusses how Play On confronts the culture of silence around abuse in women’s sports while highlighting stories of resilience, recovery, and community.

For more info on Heidi and her book visit: www.heidismithwriter.com

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About Fighting For Overtime

Hateful Words and Wrong Priorities in a Local Softball League | F4OT Pod

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 23:07:56 -0300

When bringing awareness causes hateful pushback from the local community. Is this what the world of youth sports has become?

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About Fighting For Overtime

From Setbacks to Comebacks: The Unstoppable Baseball Journey of DJ Dickson | F4OT Pod

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 12:52:27 -0300

From battling injuries to chasing a lifelong dream in baseball, DJ Dickson has lived the highs and lows of the game — and come out stronger every time.

In this episode of Fighting For Overtime, Coach Tony sits down with the Southampton native to talk about his journey from growing up with his dad as his coach, to competing at UVA Wise, and now mentoring young players through his own hitting clinic.

DJ’s story is one of resilience, recovery, and giving back, showing that every setback can become the foundation for something greater.

🎯 Topics Include:

Battling through injuries and staying mentally strong
Lessons learned from being coached by family
Competing at the college level
Building and running his own hitting clinic
The importance of mentorship and community

Whether you’re a player, coach, or parent — this episode will remind you that your journey isn’t defined by the obstacles, but by the heart you show after them.

#FightingForOvertime #YouthSports #Baseball #SouthamptonPA #UVAWise #Resilience #BaseballLife #AthleteMindset #Motivation #Coaching

***Follow DJ's Hitting Clinic Page for More Info -- www.instagram.com/djdickson.hitting

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Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightingforovertime/

About Fighting For Overtime In this podcast, we dive deep into the world of youth sports, exploring the highs and lows of young athletes. Join Coach Tony as he uncovers the triumphs and tribulations of young athletes striving for excellence amidst the pressures of competition, parental expectations, and societal demands. This program will offer listeners a personal connection to the challenges and triumphs faced by athletes and parents as they strive for success while grappling with their mental health.

F4OT Rewind: From Field to Future: The Power of Sports on Young Minds | Mike Odes - Referee, Umpire, & Mentor | F4OT Pod

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 09:00:00 -0300

Are parents pushing their kids too hard on their pursuit of the next level? We discuss............

In this episode of Fighting for Overtime Youth Sports, Coach Tony sits down with Mike Odes (his former 7th Grade Teacher) — whose experiences on the field/court and in the classroom, set the stage for a positive foundation in youth sports. During this passionate conversation, Mike opens up about all the outside interference a current day youth athlete hears and how he tries to change the narrative of current day competition. His resume below.......

Basketball Referee for 34 years - CYO, Department of Recreation, PIAA High School Girls Varsity Basketball
Baseball Umpire - 22 years CYO, Department of Recreation, Suburban Travel, Tournament Select Baseball
Volleyball Official - 3 years - CYO, PIAA High School Girls
Coached Boys Basketball and Girls Softball at Archbishop Ryan High School
Supervisor of Student Assistance Program at Archbishop Ryan (social intervention)

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightingforovertime/

When the Game Turns Against Them: A Softball Team's Fight for Fairness | F4OT Pod

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 19:48:11 -0300

What happens when the adults in charge stop playing fair? In this powerful episode, I speak with Chrissy Collison, the President of Upper Southampton Softball, who shares why they were shockingly removed from their league — not because of their performance, but because they challenged the rules. Hear how bullying, intimidation, and unfair treatment by league leadership left young players sidelined and heartbroken. This is a must-listen for any parent who believes in standing up for what's right — on and off the field.

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Sideline Stress: How Youth Sports Strains Family Bonds | F4OT Pod

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0300

The relentless push for early specialization and profit-driven youth sports isn’t just changing the game—it’s harming kids’ education, fracturing family time, and turning communities into battlegrounds for the next 'elite' athlete. And as another sprawling sports complex opens, the system only digs in deeper. Coach Tony Talks about it..........

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightingforovertime/

About Fighting For Overtime In this podcast, we delve deep into the world of youth sports, exploring the highs and lows of young athletes. Join Coach Tony as he uncovers the triumphs and tribulations of young athletes striving for excellence amidst the pressures of competition, parental expectations, and societal demands. This program will offer listeners a personal connection to the challenges and triumphs faced by athletes and parents as they strive for success while grappling with their mental health.

F4OT Rewind: The No Fun Zone in Youth Sports | F4OT Pod

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 08:05:00 -0300

Where did the fun go when playing youth sports? Are kids over-lessoned causing their IQ to suffer? While sports may not be for every kid, being a part of a TEAM can be very beneficial for a young child if built the right way.

In this episode, Coach Tony talks about the misconceptions when it comes to coaching a youth sports team and why 70% of all young players are quitting sports before the age of 13. It's all here plus more on this week's episode of Fighting for Overtime.

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightingforovertime/

F4OT Rewind: Why You’re Not Getting Recruited | Mackenzie Bellows-Schissel of Scout U Gets REAL | F4OT Pod

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 08:01:00 -0300

Are you fully prepared for the college recruiting process? Could your past impact your chances?.......

In this episode, National College Scout, Mackenzie Bellows-Schissel, gives her experiences as a DIV 1 Player, DIV Coach, & Scout.

Follow Mackenzie's Work: : https://linktr.ee/mac_schissel

***Follow the Pod - Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Also, please leave your stories in the comments or send them to me privately. Remember, you are not alone! #mentalhealthawareness #YouthSports

Follow the show everywhere here: https://linktr.ee/fightingforovertime

Tech Meets Talent with Hanna Howard: The Future of Youth Sports Starts at Rematch US | F4OT Pod

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0300

From Burnout to Balance to Breakthroughs........

In this powerful episode of Fighting For Overtime, Coach Tony sits down with Hanna Howard, CEO of Rematch U.S. and former Division I basketball standout and college coach. With over 15 years of experience on the sidelines at elite programs like TCU and Fresno State, Hanna brings a rare perspective—as an athlete, coach, parent, and now a tech leader—on how youth sports are evolving.

Together, they dive into how Rematch U.S. is using cutting-edge technology to transform how young athletes capture, share, and learn from their own performances. From the platform’s game-changing "auto-rewind" highlight feature to the deeper mental health conversations surrounding burnout and athlete development, this episode covers it all.

Whether you're a parent, coach, or young athlete, this discussion offers honest insight into the challenges and solutions shaping the future of youth sports.

📌 Topics Covered:

How Rematch U.S. is more than just highlight reels
The balance between talent and tech in youth sports
Mental health, burnout, and the role of parents
Coaching insights from the D1 level to the boardroom

🔗 Learn more about Rematch U.S.: https://www.rematch.tv/us/

Follow the show everywhere here: https://linktr.ee/fightingforovertime

The Journey of a Relentless Competitor | From Warminster to Wood, Noelle Baxter Holds Court | F4OT Pod

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:34:31 -0300

When a youth athlete battles herself inside and out, it brings out the ultimate competitor. This is her story......

In this episode, we sit down with Noelle Baxter, a former standout in both AAU and high school basketball, who carried her love of the game from the travel soccer fields of CRUSA to the hardwood of Kutztown University. Raised in Warminster, PA, and shaped by top-tier programs like Heat Hoops, Mid-Atlantic Magic, and Archbishop Wood, Noelle brings us inside the mind of a competitor who never stopped grinding.

We explore the full arc of her sports story—starting in youth travel leagues, pushing through the intense AAU circuit under Coach Kari Cairone, and later elevating her game under Coach Mike McDonald at one of Pennsylvania’s most dominant high school programs. She opens up about life as a student-athlete in college, mental burnout, rediscovery, and what it took to fight through the moments most people never see.

Segment by segment, we dig into:

The early days of soccer and the transition to basketball
The unglamorous grind of AAU ball and its mental toll
High expectations and emotional walls at Archbishop Wood
Life lessons from Kutztown, both on and off the court
Setbacks, sacrifices, and how she rebuilt herself mentally

Whether you're an athlete, a coach, or someone who’s ever struggled to stay in the game—this episode delivers the heart of what it means to fight for overtime.

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F4OT Rewind: From Burnout to Balance | Former HS Pitcher Mackenzie Marino Speaks Out

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0300

Do you feel today's young athletes are overworked and on the edge of burnout? How did you find balance as a youth athlete while still trying to be a kid? Former Softball Pitcher turned Real Estate Agent Mackenzie Marino joins Coach Tony to break it down.

Before being a kick ass Real Estate Agent, Mackenzie Marino was a “BEAST” on the Softball Field. Her career spans 9+ years playing for Northampton Hawks and Council Rock South HS. You wouldn’t know by looking at her, but her demeanor on the mound struck fear into the opposition and now has carried her into a successful career in Real Estate!

She used her experiences to make her stronger while building a recognizable name within the industry. You can catch her at Roc Hous Real Estate in PA and NJ. Trust me; she will fight for you to get you what you want!

E/M her for your Home Buying/selling needs: mackenzie@rochous.com

Follow Mackenzie Marino for all your Real Estate Needs on IG: https://www.instagram.com/mackenziemarino.realtor/

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightingforovertime/

About Fighting For Overtime

Beyond Trophies: How Sports Shape Young Minds | Mike Odes - Referee, Umpire, & Mentor | F4OT Pod

Mon, 19 May 2025 10:00:00 -0300

Are parents pushing their kids too hard on their pursuit of the next level? We discuss............

Basketball Referee for 34 years - CYO, Department of Recreation, PIAA High School Girls Varsity Basketball
Baseball Umpire - 22 years CYO, Department of Recreation, Suburban Travel, Tournament Select Baseball
Volleyball Official - 3 years - CYO, PIAA High School Girls
Coached Boys Basketball and Girls Softball at Archbishop Ryan High School
Supervisor of Student Assistance Program at Archbishop Ryan (social intervention)

Hidden Pain Behind a Softball Career | FMR HS Softball Player Taylor Cutillo Opens Up | F4OT Pod

Mon, 05 May 2025 00:23:06 -0300

When you feel lost and defeated as a youth athlete, who do you turn to?..........

Pay to Play: The Rising Price Tag on Youth Sports | F4OT Pod

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 00:34:53 -0300

Is the game still fair when only the wealthy can afford to play? Are we pricing kids out?........

In this episode of Fighting For Overtime, we dive deep into the growing financial burden of youth sports. From club team fees and travel expenses to specialized training and equipment, the cost of participation is skyrocketing—and it's pricing out countless families. We hear from parents, coaches, and former athletes about the sacrifices being made, the impact on accessibility, and what this means for the future of competitive sports.

Top Mistakes Young Athletes Make in Recruiting | Mackenzie Bellows-Schissel of Scout U | F4OT Pod

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 23:06:39 -0300

Are you fully prepared for the college recruiting process? Could your past impact your chances?.......

In this episode, National College Scout, Mackenzie Bellows-Schissel, gives her experiences as a DIV 1 Player, DIV Coach, & Scout.

Follow Mackenzie's Work: : https://linktr.ee/mac_schissel

Youth Athlete Dropouts: Uncovering the Reasons Kids Drop Out of Youth Sports

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 11:12:23 -0300

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightingforovertime/

Mental Burnout in Young Athletes: All Eyes on Lexi Thompson and Caitlin Clark

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 14:00:53 -0300

What happens when you no longer love the sport you're playing anymore? How do you cope with the backlash from your so-called supporters? LPGA Golfer Lexi Thompson had enough; if you're not careful, your child could be next!

In this episode, Coach Tony talks about mental burnout in youth sports and why it is taking a toll on our kids. He looks at two prominent figures in sports and uses their situations to show why we need to check on our kids now more than ever. It's all here plus more on this week's episode of Fighting for Overtime.

***Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Also, please leave your stories in the comments or send them to me privately. Remember, you are not alone! #mentalhealthawareness #YouthSports

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightingforovertime/

Interview: Former HS Softball Pitcher Mackenzie Marino | Finding Your Life Balance as a Young Athlete | The Fighting For Overtime Podcast

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 19:55:29 -0300

She used her experiences to make her stronger while building a recognizable name within the industry. You can catch her at Roc Hous Real Estate in PA and NJ. Trust me, she will fight for you to get you what you want!

E/M her for your Home Buying/selling needs: mackenzie@rochous.com

Follow Mackenzie Marino for all your Real Estate Needs on IG: https://www.instagram.com/mackenziemarino.realtor/

***This is the interview addition of The Fighting For Overtime Podcast Follow the Pod - Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Also, please leave your stories in the comments or send them to me privately. Remember, you are not alone! #mentalhealthawareness #YouthSports

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightingforovertime/

Interview: HC Justin Newton of Reinhardt University | Benefits of The Transfer Portal in CBB | The Fighting For Overtime Podcast

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 15:24:06 -0300

How has youth sports changed the way young athletes approach the collegiate level? Head Men’s Basketball Coach of Reinhardt University, Justin Newton joins Coach Tony to break it down.

Justin Newton is in his 4th season as head coach of Reinhardt Men's Basketball. The former Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association (GCAA) Men's Division I Basketball Coach of the Year from Andrew (Ga.) College was selected as the next men's basketball coach at Reinhardt University on April 10, 2019.

Follow Coach Newton on X: https://x.com/jnewton0729

Follow Reinhardt University BBall on X: https://x.com/R_U_Mbball

Follow the show on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fightingforovertime/

When Holidays and Youth Sports Collide

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:35:26 -0300

Are you willing to give up your holidays for youth sports? Are youth sports making our priorities backwards? How can athletes take a break with all the pressure to constantly be on top?

In this episode, Coach Tony talks about the importance of taking breaks in youth sports and why it is important for your athlete’s overall physical and mental health. He also uncovers the story of holiday tournament that turned ugly with parents as the main culprit. It's all here plus more on this week's episode of Fighting for Overtime.

Team Hopping and the Realities of Sports Scholarships

Thu, 09 May 2024 17:27:14 -0300

Can a young athlete be noticed playing on a club team? What are the reasons kids switch programs year after year?

In this episode, Coach Tony dives into the complex world of team hopping and the often unrealistic expectations surrounding sports scholarships from all division levels. Join him as he unpacks the reasons why kids leave their specific teams, as well as why they stay. He also uncovers the story of a local athlete who trumped the team-hopping narrative and came out on top. It's all here plus more on this week's episode of Fighting for Overtime.

When the Accusations of Daddy Ball Tear Down a Coach and His Son

Wed, 01 May 2024 11:04:09 -0300

How would you approach a “daddy ball” situation with your child? Were you ever accused of playing "daddy ball" as a coach?

In this episode, we explore the meaning of "daddy ball" by taking a deep dive into Coach Tony's own experiences and hearing some words from Jamaal Crawford who faced his own challenges too.

Every situation is different and in various situations, “daddy ball” may or may not be actually happening. Furthermore, there are some benefits to the concept as well. Tune in and see if you agree...........

Parental Pressure: When Parents Fuel Hate on the Field

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 23:28:03 -0300

Did you make a decision as a parent, early in the youth sports journey that you still regret today? If so, what were the parameters around this decision? Why do you regret it? Would you go back and change it if you could? These are questions Coach Tony asks himself each and every day. He made a decision 11 years ago that he still grapples with today. Tune in and follow the journey....................

When Young Athletes Don’t Fit In

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 00:33:32 -0300

What happens when you love the sport, but you’re not good enough to play with your friends? Playing sports enables you to create friendships you otherwise might not have formed. Sports is supposed to bring teens together from different schools, backgrounds, and communities. However, when competition shows out, you could be left out and wondering where to go next. Coach Tony discusses a situation he dealt with that took his daughter down a tough road and how he helped her cope.