Fighting For Overtime: Addressing Anxiety and Achievements in Youth Sports

DJ Dickson has faced injuries, tough competition, and the challenges of chasing a dream in baseball. From growing up with his dad as his coach to playing at UVA Wise, and now mentoring the next generation through his hitting clinic, DJ’s journey proves that setbacks don’t define you — how you respond does. Tune in to hear his story of resilience, dedication, and the love of the game."

***Follow DJ's Hitting Clinic Page for More Inf...

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 ...

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-li...

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..........

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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 t...

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 

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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.

T...

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 A...

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. ...

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 ...

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,...

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 sacrific...

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 t...

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...

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. ...

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 basketbal...

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...

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 tr...