FAQ

Everything parents and athletes ask before getting started. Still have a question? Email michael@carreracoaching.com and Michael will answer personally.

About the Programs

Who is this for?
Athletes ages 13–18 — high school, AAU, travel, and club — plus the parents and coaches around them. Mature 11–12 year olds do well with a parent working alongside them.

Who created this?
Michael J. Carrera — a former athlete, strength & conditioning coach, and championship collegiate basketball coach with a master's degree in psychology. Everything is built on sport psychology and neuroscience, not motivational filler.

Is this a replacement for therapy or counseling?
No. This is performance education, not mental health treatment. If an athlete is struggling with anxiety, depression, or any mental health concern, please involve a qualified professional. We're glad to work alongside that support, not in place of it.

How is this different from physical training?
Physical training builds what the body can do. Mental training builds what the mind allows the body to do under pressure. They work together — this is designed to run alongside regular practice and lifting, not replace any of it.

The Manuals & Workbooks

What exactly do I receive?
A 20-page sport-specific Mental Performance Manual (PDF) plus the companion workbook. 18 chapters organized across four pillars: Foundation, The Inner Game, The Competition Mind, and Becoming Elite.

Is it downloadable instantly?
Yes. Your download is delivered immediately after checkout and works on phone, tablet, or computer. You can also print it — many athletes mark theirs up.

Will it work for my athlete's sport?
Each edition is written for one sport specifically. The examples, standards, routines, and pressure moments come from that sport. We currently cover 17 sports.

Do I need an app or subscription?
No. One-time purchase. No app, no login, no recurring charge.

How long does it take?
Most athletes read it in one or two sittings, then use it as a training manual across a season. The Daily 5-Minute Practice takes five minutes a day.

What if my athlete won't do the work?
Start with one chapter and the five-minute practice. Each chapter delivers value on its own — nobody has to finish the book to benefit.

Can I buy more than one sport?
Yes, and many families do. Bundle any 2 or more manuals and 20% comes off automatically at checkout.

The 12-Week Academy

Why is it application only?
Spots are limited and the program only works for athletes who genuinely want it. Michael personally reviews every application.

How long until I hear back?
Within 48 hours.

Does a parent need to be involved?
Yes. A parent or guardian must be informed before acceptance is confirmed.

How much time does it take each week?
Roughly 45–60 minutes, plus the daily five-minute practice.

Payment, Refunds & Privacy

Is checkout secure?
Yes. Payments are processed by Shopify with standard encryption. We never see or store your card details.

What's your refund policy on digital products?
If a download doesn't work or you're not satisfied, email us within 30 days and we'll make it right. See our Refund Policy for details.

What do you do with my email?
We send your purchase and occasional mental-performance tips. We never sell or share your information, and you can unsubscribe anytime.

Do you collect information from minors?
Purchases are made by parents or guardians. We don't knowingly collect personal information from children under 13.

Teams & Coaches

Can we use this with a whole team?
Yes. Many coaches run a chapter a week with their group. For full team delivery, see the Team Program — a three-session system Michael runs directly with your athletes.

Do you travel to teams?
Reach out through the Team Program application and we'll talk through options for your program.