Written by: Gabby Huffman
Youth sports and physical wellness are clearly connected. But what about mental health? The topic of mental wellness in youth sports is often overlooked, and when it does come up, it can be tough to talk about.
Idaho Interscholastic Cycling League student-athlete Finley Scott spent her senior year in 2023 trying to change that narrative…and what started as Finley’s incredible passion project has now evolved into a full-blown, athlete-led initiative that raises awareness and tackles mental health stigma head-on.
Finley, an alum of the Eagle High School mountain bike team, has faced mental health challenges of her own throughout her life. Luckily, Finley has been surrounded by a supportive community. Her father, who was also the head coach of her team, constantly emphasized the importance of athletes taking care of their mental wellness. But when her team and the Idaho league community experienced several heartbreaking losses of fellow student-athletes in 2023, Finley realized the need for greater mental health awareness: she wanted to ensure that no one felt alone in their grief. As the Student Leadership Council (SLC) Leader, she approached the Idaho League staff with the idea of creating a mental health campaign for athletes throughout the entire league—and it quickly took off.
The response to Finley’s initiative was overwhelmingly positive. "I didn't expect the support I received," Finley recalls. "The Idaho League felt even more like family after we launched the campaign." What started as a small idea became a league-wide effort, with students, coaches, and parents embracing the chance to talk openly about mental health.
The campaign became a platform where students could share their stories and learn about mental health resources that many, including Finley, didn’t know existed. By creating weekly articles that featured facts, resources, and personal insights, Finley provided a roadmap for others who were struggling.
After Finley piloted the project in 2023, it was so well received that the next class of Student Leadership Council members decided to make it an ongoing campaign, making mental health a pillar of the athlete experience in Idaho. This year, senior rider Katelyn Cook is carrying the torch as part of her own GRiT Ambassador Mentor project, along with Ella Shaughnessy, Nevyn Brandel, and Yuki Nakaya.
According to the Idaho League Director Eddie Freyer, student-led initiatives like this bring a level of authenticity that resonates with their peers. "These campaigns create an openness to discussing mental health between students, their coaches, and parents that I don’t think existed before," he says.
Through their mental health advocacy, Finley, Katelyn, Ella, Nevyn, Yuki, and the Idaho League are breaking down barriers around mental health discussions in youth sports. By fostering a safe environment where mental health is openly discussed, the league is creating space for meaningful conversations that allow student-athletes to feel supported both on and off the bike.
As Finley says, "It takes one small step." Whether it’s starting a conversation, organizing a mental health-focused practice, or simply checking in with a teammate, this campaign has shown that everyone can play a role in supporting mental well-being in their community.
50 percent of people will experience a mental health challenge in their lifetime. Sports like mountain biking have been shown to positively impact athlete mental health, but it takes intentional action to address many of the stigmas and provide holistic support for athletes. Learn more about concrete ways you can support young adults mental health with our partners at True Sport. For other mental health resources, visit www.nami.org
You are not alone! If you are struggling with your mental health, please reach out to an expert.
Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text “HelpLine” to 62640 or email helpline@nami.org
Or, connect to the suicide/crisis line: dial or text 988
When you support NICA, you support life-changing moments, an inclusive community, and a re-imagined youth sports experience.
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