SYP Interview: Justin Yee & Youth Sports Coaching
Listen or watch on the following platforms
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Justin Yee, a soccer coach and co-founder of the Strong Youth Project, as we dive deep into the value of youth sports in shaping character and life skills. Discover the importance of playing multiple sports, how to manage performance pressure, and why strength training for young athletes is beneficial. Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete, this interview offers insights and practical tips for enhancing the youth sports experience. Learn how to foster resilience, teamwork, and a love for the game that lasts a lifetime!
Justin Yee is a Co-Director of SYP with Matthew Seeley and earned a BS degree in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University. He served as a Police Officer for eight years and concurrently coached high school and youth soccer teams. It was during this time that he became passionate about using sports and physical training to help youth develop positive character traits that could help them overcome life’s obstacles. Justin owned and operated a CrossFit gym for over ten years and started a youth non-profit that provided physical training to underserved youth. Justin believes that participation in youth sports needs to focus on character development and is committed to providing resources for athletes, coaches, and parents.
0:15 - Introduction of Justin Yee and his role in the Strong Youth Project
0:40 - How Justin became involved with the Strong Youth Project
1:48 - Justin’s athletic background and journey into coaching
5:26 - Importance of playing multiple sports versus early specialization
7:05 - Impact of sports on personal development and life skills
9:35 - Balancing love for the game with performance pressure
10:55 - Communication tips for parents supporting young athletes
13:02 - Managing stress and excitement in youth sports environments
17:00 - Parent communication after a game, especially after a loss
20:03 - Justin’s experience coaching CrossFit and working with young athletes
22:22 - Benefits of exposing young athletes to varied movement patterns
25:12 - Strength training for youth athletes and debunking myths
29:04 - Tips for proper weightlifting and movement training for young athletes
33:05 - Long-term benefits of strength training and avoiding injury
35:07 - Core values and goals for the Strong Youth Project
36:49 - The importance of developing life skills through sports
39:03 - Implementing the Strong Youth Project in daily life and sports
40:24 - Resources available on the Strong Youth Project website
42:01 - Justin’s favorite soccer team and thoughts on adversity in sports
44:09 - Closing remarks and reflections on the impact of sports
