STEPHENVILLE, Texas — The Department of Sport Science at Tarleton State University partnered recently with Strong Girls United to host 40 elementary school female athletes in free resilience, leadership and empowerment training. 

“We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to partner with Strong Girls United,” said organizer Rachel Elms, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Sports Science. “Not only is it important to support women and girls in sports, but this event has given our sport management students the unique chance to teach mental skills to young, female athletes from the Erath County community that will equip them for a lifetime.” 

The girls learned breathing strategies in a competition scenario, mental health skills for high-pressure situations, and team building.

“These skills I believe are critical to learn and use from an early age,” Dr. Elms said. “The physical side of sport and competition is important, but we also support the mental/emotional side.” 

After the training, the girls attended the Tarleton women’s basketball game against Stephen F. Austin State University. 

The mission of Strong Girls United is to empower young women to be strong, confident and resilient through sport and physical activity alongside mental health and well-being activities.

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.