In this episode of the Athlete Wellness Podcast, co-hosts Lilly Wehman and Sarah Meister sit down with Ohio University soccer player and current intern, Scout Murray, as she heads into her senior season. Scout opens up about the realities of playing at the Division I level, from navigating injuries and the fear of losing a starting spot to managing the mental toll of constant competition.

The conversation explores the fine line between pushing through pain and protecting long-term health, the deep-rooted pressures athletes feel to prove themselves, and how identity is tied to sport. Scout also shares her mindset shift toward focusing on what she can control, finding joy in her final year, and preparing for life beyond the field.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or supporter, this candid discussion offers insight into the unspoken challenges of collegiate athletics and practical advice for maintaining perspective, resilience, and self-love.

• The hidden struggles of “small” injuries and their impact on playing time and mental health

• The fear of being replaced and the psychology behind pushing through pain

• Why controlling the controllables can reduce pressure and improve performance

• Balancing competitiveness with joy during a final season

• Preparing for identity shifts after sports

Related episodes: Life After Sport Series: Identity Loss and Purpose Beyond Sports | Recovering From Injury

Millennium Athlete Wellness provides a holistic approach to mental health and performance enhancement for athletes. Our team comprises sports psychology experts and clinical mental health professionals dedicated to helping athletes at all levels achieve peak performance and overall wellness. Each athlete we work with is connected to a licensed counselor, many of whom have personal experience as Division 1 athletes. This unique insight ensures a deep understanding of athletes’ challenges, both on and off the field. Our mission is to support athletes’ mental well-being and performance through expert guidance and empathetic care.

Millennium Athlete Wellness: Website
Lilly Wehman: Millennium | LinkedIn
Sarah Meister: Millennium | LinkedIn

At Millennium Counseling Center, our mission is to provide compassionate and personalized support for individuals facing challenges related to mental health, addiction, relationships, and trauma. Our dedicated and diverse staff works to create a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for people from all walks of life. We are committed to fostering a program and treatment plan uniquely tailored to your needs and who you are, helping you find a path to healing and growth.

The post Athlete Wellness | Balancing Joy, Pressure, and Identity with Scout Murray appeared first on Millennium Counseling Center.