Episode 116: Finding Identity Beyond the Court: Zach Cleveland's Journey

In episode 116 of The Mental Metal Podcast, Coach Matt Thomann sits down with Liberty University basketball standout Zach Cleveland for a powerful conversation on faith, identity, and purpose that reaches far beyond the boundaries of the court.

Why Identity Beyond Sports Matters

For athletes, the pressure to perform—and the temptation to build your entire identity around sport—can be overwhelming. But, as Zach’s story reveals, genuine confidence and resilience come from something deeper than winning games or earning accolades. His faith in Jesus Christ has become the anchor that shapes his choices, fuels his competitive fire, and guides him through adversity.

The Transformative Power of Faith in Jesus Christ

Zach opens up about how his relationship with God became more than a label—it became his core identity, especially during times of doubt, injury, and uncertainty. Instead of letting his mental toughness ride the ups and downs of stats and social media, Zach discovered steady strength by rooting his life in Christ.

“If you live for their praises, you’ll die by their criticisms,” Zach shares—a reminder that self-worth built on shifting wins and losses will never be enough. His journey illustrates the importance of playing for a higher purpose and letting faith define your why.

Connectivity: The Team’s Secret Superpower

One of the most practical insights Zach reveals is how connectivity—built on shared beliefs, open conversations, and mutual respect—is a true competitive advantage at Liberty. He describes how team culture sessions, worship, and talking about life (not just basketball) create bonds that translate into success on the court.

Instead of focusing solely on film breakdowns and tactical drills, Liberty's coaching staff spends “ten times as much” on culture, mindset, and connection. This intentional team approach fosters trust, humility, and genuine support—helping every player row in the same direction.

Balancing Competitiveness with Humility

Athletes often wrestle with the tension between fierce competitiveness and humility. Zach is candid about his own journey: learning to play hard, strive for excellence, and be a leader, while making space for forgiveness, self-reflection, and spiritual growth.

He shares how scriptural truths like Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord”—drive him to give his best effort while honoring God and his teammates.

Navigating Life’s Adversity With Faith and Strength

Whether it was battling injury, overcoming self-doubt, or facing career transitions, Zach illustrates how relying on God’s guidance and saturating his mind with scripture sustain him through adversity. He talks openly about giving himself grace, letting go of ego, and finding confidence in evidence-based growth (not just raw talent).

For Zach, true mental toughness doesn’t mean ignoring setbacks, but smoothing out the highs and lows by keeping his eyes fixed on something eternally meaningful.

Why You Should Listen

This episode isn’t just for athletes—it’s for coaches, leaders, parents, and anyone searching for a faith-centered path to personal growth. Zach’s journey is living proof that finding identity beyond your sport, work, or achievements leads to deeper joy and lasting resilience.

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Book Your Free Coaching Session

Ready to unlock mental toughness, resilience, and purpose—for yourself or your team?
Contact Coach Thomann at coachthomann@gmail.com or visit www.mentalmettlelifecoaching.com to schedule your free coaching session.

Tune in, grow, and always remember—forge your metal.