Dedicated to supporting the mental health and emotional well-being of student-athletes at all levels, because champions are built from the inside out.
To provide student athletes with accessible, professional mental health services, resources, and safe spaces that empower them to succeed in sports and in life.
A future where every student athlete’s mental health is prioritized, destigmatized, and supported, enabling them to thrive beyond athletics.
Beyond the Playbook exists to bridge the gap between athletic performance and mental well-being by ensuring student-athletes have the support, tools, and safe environments they need to navigate both the pressures of competition and everyday life. Our purpose is to normalize mental health care within athletics, provide access to trusted resources, and equip student-athletes with the resilience, confidence, and emotional strength required to succeed not just in their sport, but in every aspect of their personal and professional journeys.
“Beyond the Playbook Foundation believes that mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness. We are here to ensure no student-athlete faces their mental health challenges alone.”
The numbers don’t lie. Student-athletes face unique mental health challenges that demand dedicated support and resources.
Over 40% of student-athletes report feeling overwhelmed by academic and athletic responsibilities.
About 1 in 4 college athletes report feeling mentally exhausted.
Athletes often avoid seeking help due to stigma and fear of appearing weak.
Injury, performance pressure, and identity loss contribute to increased mental health struggles in athletes.
Approximately Up to 35% of elite athletes face a mental health crisis, including burnout, depression, or anxiety. Anxiety disorders occur at similar rates in athletes and non-athletes, though elite athletes face higher risks for specific issues.
Risks & Factors: Key risk factors include overtraining syndrome, injury, involuntary career termination, and immense performance pressure.
Find Therapists and Psychologists in a city near you
24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth.
Focuses on protecting emotional health and preventing suicide among teens and college students.
A nonprofit focused on young adult mental health awareness, especially on college campuses.
Whether you’re an athlete, parent, coach, or supporter — there’s a place for you here.
You are never alone. Trained counselors are available around the clock — reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Free, confidential support for people in distress. Available 24/7, 365 days a year.
Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Free & confidential.
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services. Free treatment referrals and information.
If you or someone is in immediate danger or life-threatening crisis, call 911 right away.
REMEMBER : Seeking help is the strongest play you can make. Your mental health matters as much as your performance.
Beyond the Playbook Foundation was built on the belief that the mental game is just as critical as the physical one. We provide scholarships, counseling access, and community resources to student-athletes who need it most.
Student-athletes navigate intense pressure from performance expectations to academic demands often in silence. The numbers highlight a growing need, but behind every statistic is a real person who deserves support. This space is dedicated to providing access to trusted resources, guidance, and tools that empower student-athletes to prioritize their mental well-being, seek help when needed, and know they are not alone.
24/7 crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth.
Focuses on protecting emotional health and preventing suicide among teens and college students.
A nonprofit focused on young adult mental health awareness, especially on college campuses.
Our scholarship programs recognize athletes who demonstrate resilience, leadership, and commitment to mental wellness.
Scholarship Summary
The Beyond the Playbook Scholarship is designed to support student athletes who are managing mental health challenges while pursuing their academic and athletic goals. This scholarship recognizes the resilience, strength, and determination it takes for student athletes to balance school, sports, and mental health. It also aims to encourage open conversations about mental health and provide support to those navigating these challenges.
About Bryce Gowdy
Bryce Gowdy was a talented student athlete from Deerfield Beach, Florida, who was known for his dedication to football, his strong work ethic, and his determination to succeed both academically and athletically. Bryce earned a football scholarship to Georgia Tech University, demonstrating his commitment to excellence and his bright future as a collegiate athlete. Tragically, Bryce Gowdy lost his life to suicide in 2020.
“Supporting the mission of the Beyond the Playbook Foundation is not just important—it’s necessary. As a former athlete, I understand firsthand the pressures student-athletes face both on and off the field. Mental health is just as critical as physical performance, and this foundation is creating a safe space for athletes to be seen, heard, and supported. I stand in full support of this movement to ensure no athlete has to struggle in silence.”
(Former NFL Player, CEO of Den Media Group, Founder of MFTK Foundation)
“Greatness is not only built by how far you jump, but by how strong you stand mentally through every challenge life brings. Beyond the Playbook is creating space for athletes to prioritize their mental health, believe in themselves, and keep pushing forward.”
(Jamaican Long Jumper & Olympian)
“Coming from the professional level, I know how easy it is to focus on performance and ignore everything else. What many don’t see is the mental weight athletes carry every day. Having a space like Beyond the Playbook Foundation gives athletes the opportunity to speak freely, be supported, and take care of their mental well-being in a way that truly matters.”
(Former NFL Player)
Veterans in crisis and their families and friends can be connected with qualified Department of Veterans Affairs responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text by calling 988 and pressing 1.
Crisis support is available 24/7 you are not alone.
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You can also text 838255 or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net
