Carl Henson, CEO of LifeLink, believes there’s more to youth sports than just scoring points. He wants kids to grow not only as players but as whole individuals. “Many kids are fantastic athletes, but we aim to develop them fully,” Henson explained.
Alongside Co-Founder Hope Law, Henson is excited to launch a new program at Wintarian Athletics this Saturday. This initiative will provide mental health services and academic support for young athletes. Their approach is not only about athletics; it’s about nurturing the mind and spirit too.
“We’ll have in-house therapists and tutors available. We’re also offering Spanish lessons and summer camps. Plus, there will be a daily after-school program,” Henson shared. The schedule is designed thoughtfully. Kids will finish their homework, then have a therapy session. They’ll learn important skills to manage stress and anger, which can help both on and off the court.
Young athletes at the gym are buzzing with excitement. Nine-year-old Khalief James enjoys the training, saying, “It’s fun! After practice, we can play games to show what we’ve learned.” His friend, Levi Hebron, chimed in, “I could spend all day here!” Their enthusiasm highlights the positive impact this program is likely to have.
Mental health support is increasingly important for young people. According to a recent study by the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 children in the U.S. experience a mental health disorder, yet many don’t receive the help they need. Programs like LifeLink’s aim to bridge that gap and provide essential support.
The grand opening at Wintarian Athletics will take place Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees can look forward to food, music, games, and a sneak peek at the new services offered.
This initiative is a refreshing step toward combining sports with mental and academic growth, reflecting a broader trend in youth athletics. More organizations are recognizing that supporting mental health is crucial for overall success in sports and life.
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Source linkCarl Henson,Howard County,LifeLink,LifeLink Co-Founder Hope Law,LifeLink basketball,Wintarian Athletics,basketball,education,mental health,student athletes
