JEDI Training for Youth Athletes

Publication Date

1-1-2025

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Journal of Sport Psychology in Action

DOI

10.1080/21520704.2025.2478915

Abstract

As multiple forms of oppression become more evident in youth sport, there is a growing need for sport psychology professionals, physical educators, and coaches to incorporate social justice-oriented dialogue into their practices. While mental skills such as confidence and cohesion are often highlighted in positive youth development models, issues of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) are neglected. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to provide a workshop template for educating youth athletes and youth sport leaders about JEDI. First, we review the importance and benefits of introducing social justice conversations during middle childhood, particularly, noting the increase in empathy that occurs during this stage. Second, we describe six interactive activities (Portrait of a Padawan, The JEDI Code, Use the Force, Build Your SABER, The JEDI Trials, and Lightsaber Ceremony), which are designed to cultivate one or more components of cultural humility (awareness, knowledge, skills, and action). Third, we discuss potential issues for youth sport practitioners to consider when designing and facilitating JEDI-related activities with youth athletes.

Keywords

Cultural competence, cultural humility, cultural sport psychology, social justice, youth sport

Department

Kinesiology

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