About Doc
At Winning Edges sports psychology consultancy, our mission is to empower athletes to excel not only in their athletic performance but also all aspects of life.
With more than three decades of voluntary experience supporting Syracuse University's basketball program and a Ph.D. in Instructional Design, Development, and Evaluation from Syracuse University, as well as 20 years as a public school physical education instructor and basketball coach, Dr. Thomas Clinton brings a unique combination of expertise in education, motivation, and performance enhancement.
We are dedicated to equipping athletes with evidence-based strategies to build confidence, develop resilience, and achieve their full potential.
30+
Years Experience
Ph.D.
Syracuse University
Mental Game vs Physical Game
Elite performance requires mastery of both mental and physical aspects. While physical skills are visible, the mental game often determines who wins when talent is equal.
🧠
Mental Game
Focus, confidence, resilience, and decision-making under pressure. The invisible foundation that separates champions from contenders. Built through consistent mental training and psychological preparation.
💪
Physical Game
Speed, strength, agility, and technical skills. The visible tools that execute the mental strategy. Developed through physical training, practice, and conditioning.
📊 Mental Game Levels
As athletes progress through levels, the mental game becomes increasingly dominant:
High School
~60% physical, 40% mental
Talent and effort dominate. Raw athleticism and physical development are primary differentiators.
NCAA Division I
~50% physical, 50% mental
Playbooks, film study, and discipline become equal factors. Strategy meets athleticism.
Professional
~80% mental, 20% physical
Everyone's elite physically. Decision-making, focus, and emotional control decide outcomes.
🏈 Football vs 🏀 Basketball Breakdown
| Level | 🏈 Football | 🏀 Basketball |
|---|---|---|
| High School |
40% 🧠
60% 💪
|
35% 🧠
65% 💪
|
| NCAA Division I |
50% 🧠
50% 💪
|
45% 🧠
55% 💪
|
| Professional |
80% 🧠
20% 💪
|
70% 🧠
30% 💪
|
"By the pro stage, the real battle's between the ears — the body's just the delivery system." 🧠🏈🏀
Source: Effects of Psychological Interventions to Enhance Athletic Performance (PubMed, 2024)
Beyond the Game
Our focus extends beyond the game, fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and essential life skills. Through a holistic and personalized approach, we aim to inspire the next generation of leaders to succeed in every area of their lives.
Holistic Development
Building champions on and off the field through comprehensive growth strategies
Academic Excellence
Fostering intellectual growth and educational achievement alongside athletic success
Future Leaders
Inspiring the next generation to lead with character, integrity, and purpose