In the latest episode of The Mental Mettle Podcast, host Coach Matt Thomann sits down with Casey Thomann, a 3-star offensive lineman recruit who has helped lead the Olney Tigers from a winless season to an undefeated record. This remarkable turnaround isn't just about physical prowess - it's a testament to the power of mental toughness and the right mindset.The Power of Mental Coaching in High School AthleticsCasey, standing at an impressive 6'7" and 315 pounds, isn't just a physical force on the field. He's also a shining example of how mental coaching can elevate an athlete's game. As a client of Mental Mettle Coaching, Casey has learned valuable tools to enhance his performance:

  1. Embodiment Techniques: Casey discusses how he's learned to tap into his physical emotions, both positive and negative. This awareness allows him to better manage stress and boost confidence on the field.
  2. Visualization: By practicing visualization techniques, Casey has found ways to ease anxiety and prepare for high-pressure situations more effectively.
  3. Maintaining Focus During Recruitment: With offers from Power-5 schools like Illinois and Iowa, Casey shares how he stays grounded amidst the whirlwind of college visits and recruitment activities.

Watch the Mental Mettle Podcast episode with Casey here.

Transforming Team Culture

The Olney Tigers' journey from a 0-9 season to their current undefeated status is a powerful example of how mental toughness can transform a team's performance. Casey attributes much of this success to a shift in team mentality, highlighting the importance of a positive team culture in athletics.

Lessons for Athletes and Coaches

This episode offers valuable takeaways for athletes at all levels and their coaches:

  • Mental toughness is a skill that can be developed and improved
  • Combining physical training with mental preparation can lead to significant performance improvements
  • A positive team culture is crucial for turning around a struggling program

The Future of Mental Coaching in Sports

As Casey prepares for his college career, he plans to continue using the mental tools he's learned. This underscores the long-term value of mental coaching for athletes, extending beyond high school and into collegiate and potentially professional careers.Don't miss this inspiring episode of The Mental Mettle Podcast. Tune in to hear Casey's full story and gain insights that could transform your own athletic journey or coaching approach.Ready to elevate your mental game? Schedule a free coaching session with Coach Thomann and start forging your own mental mettle today!

Are you ready to forge your mettle?

More From Mental Mettle

Positive Toughness: How 9 Core Topics Transform Your Game and Life
Mental toughness is not just about grinding harder or “wanting it more.” It is a trainable system of skills that shape how you respond when life and competition punch back. That is the heart of Coach Matt Thomann’s 100% Mettle framework—a practical way to build positive toughness that holds up under real pressure, not just in motivational quotes.
Episode 125: Sleep is Your Mental and Physical Superpower
This month’s Monthly Mettle Challenge uncovers one of the most underrated but powerful tools for peak performance—sleep. In Episode 125 of the Mental Mettle Podcast, Coach Matt Thomann transforms into Mr. Sandman, sharing the science, personal stories, and straight talk on why sleep is a true superpower for your body and mind.
Episode 123: "What else is possible?" with Endurance Athlete Pierce Showe
In Episode 123 of The Mental Mettle Podcast, Coach Matt Thomann sits down with endurance athlete Pierce Showe to explore what happens when mindset expands the boundary of what the body believes is possible.
Taking Fear Out of the Game: The Secret to Unlocking True Athlete Potential
Today’s most successful coaches realize that fear isn’t a sustainable motivator—it paralyzes players, limits growth, and stunts team chemistry. Championship coach Greg Tonagel, guest on the Mental Mettle Podcast, is a standout example of why taking fear out of sports completely changes the trajectory of athletes—and entire programs.
Episode 118: Unified Hearts, Fearless Minds, and National Championships with Greg Tonagel
Discover how winning teams are built on culture, not just X’s and O’s, in the latest episode of the Mental Mettle Podcast! Episode 118, “Unified Hearts, Fearless Minds, and National Championships with Greg Tonagel,” takes you inside the mind and methods of one of college basketball’s most transformational coaches.
Episode 117: Anchored in Faith: JaDawn Bryant's Guide to Purposeful Leadership
In this transformative episode of The Mental Mettle Podcast, listeners are treated to an energizing and insightful conversation with JaDawn Bryant, head coach of the MacArthur Lady Generals, behavioral interventionist, and passionate evangelist. JaDawn's journey—anchored in deep faith and unyielding integrity—offers a beacon of purposeful leadership for coaches, athletes, and anyone seeking lasting impact.