When she's not on the field coaching or game planning with her assistants, women's lacrosse head coach Rachel Perla is in the classroom. She enrolled in LVC's Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program in Fall 2020 when she was hired at the College as a way to provide better advice and resources as a coach.

"One of my favorite things about coaching is the relationship aspect with my players," said Perla. "While I appreciated the level of trust these players had in me, I wanted to feel confident in my advice. I realized a large part of coaching was, in fact, counseling, so I chose to pursue my master's degree to become a better coach and a better resource."

Perla is already implementing tools and lessons she has learned in the program to be a more empathetic coach. One of the greatest stressors she sees in student-athletes, in general, is the unknown associated with the pandemic.

"The student-athletes currently in college have never experienced life in college pre-COVID. There are stressors and demands of being a student-athlete that are 'normal,' but are new to them," said Perla. "For these athletes, years of their high school experience were online and more relaxed. Now, they come to college and are in the full swing of things with extremely high expectations at a brand-new place, which can be challenging. The learning curve can be substantial for some, so it is important to keep perspective."

Some steps she has learned that can be a helpful way for coaches to connect with players include:

• Checking in on your players and being able to read when they are 'off'
• Creating a culture or space where athletes feel comfortable disclosing their thoughts
• Being receptive to their thoughts and feelings when athletes are willing to share

In addition to Perla's studies in her program, she is the advisor to Morgan's Message, a student club launched by two lacrosse team members this past year.

"Mental health should share the same importance as physical health," said Perla. "Athletes constantly work out to become stronger physically and see the athletic trainers or team doctors for any physical injuries or routine maintenance. The same should occur regarding mental health. You need to practice your mental health and fuel your body properly to see success. You also should see a counselor or psychologist to check in on your mental 'bumps and bruises' or for routine maintenance."

Perla shares one last thought for anyone struggling with mental health.

"How you feel right now will not last forever, even if it feels like it will. There are so many people in your corner who want to help you. One moment of being vulnerable could change your life for the better."