Peak is a part of it all, from off-season to pre-season and for every win and loss. We support our teams quietly from the sidelines and loudly from the stands and behind screens. Our work is done alongside coaches, in pursuit of their strategic goals. Through integrated support in mental performance, nutrition, sport science, and in-competition preparation, we provide expertise and resources for the entire Athletics department, working toward a successful student-athlete experience.
In the past year, we have invested in impactful technology, nutrition education for our student athletes, and traveling for staff for high-profile competitions. Continued support will further enhance these resources for our coaches and student-athletes. Take a look below for a little more detail on our newest additions.
Introduction to Virtual Reality
We have invested in 20 MetaQuest VR devices and ReactionGo software. Together, we can assess and train reactions and mental flexibility. This software evaluates baseline reactions, inhibition, and decision making, then adjusts the level of 10 training modules to optimize reactions in accordance with sport demands. Athletes in positions that require frequent, rapid decision-making (such as quarterbacks and goalkeepers) completed an initial assessment, followed by training sessions two to three times per week. We have found that this training also helps return-to-play protocols after major injury. Stay tuned for the big results.
Optimize Mind Performance
The ReactionGo software provides mental performance training to each student-athlete. Beaux Myers, our athletics mental performance coach, has created courses, reflections, and exercises tailored to each coach’s goals. This includes, but is not limited to, imagery sessions prior to a competition, reflections after a competition, and methods to transition from a “student” mind to an “athlete.” The app also provides pre-recorded exercises and courses from reputable mental performance coaches and insights from professional and experienced athletes.
Performance Pit Stop
Each Wednesday, we have a new snack available in the hours before practice, exposing the Mules to all kinds of fuel sources from local farms, like honey sticks, buckwheat crackers, and granola, as well as some easy staples found in the grocery store. We have even done a “make your own electrolytes” to learn what each mineral does for the body. Athletes are able to get some free food and learn what snacks work best for them.
Peak Travel
In-the-moment support matters and produces real results in competition. This especially holds true for mental performance, where a check-in or a pre-determined word with Beaux can switch the athlete's mind back to the situation at hand. In the past year, we have sent him on the road for 10 NESCAC and six NCAA championships, where he supports our teams from the sidelines.
These innovations are more than just tools—they are the competitive edge that defines the Colby student-athlete experience. Your gift to Peak today ensures we can continue providing the elite resources our Mules need to win. Support Peak during True Blue and help us push the boundaries of what our athletes can achieve.