Since the day your kid put on that first jersey, it's possible you have more questions now than you did back then. Maybe you're brand new to this sports world. Maybe you're already deep in it. Either way, I'm so glad you're here.
You can stop searching now. Stop screenshotting articles, saving the reels, sending them to your friend like, "see, I'm not crazy!!"
I believe what you've been looking for is the thing I've been building quietly for years. And now it's ready, and here you are.
What a coincidence.
My promise is simple. That you'll leave here feeling more equipped, more informed, and resting a little easier at night, knowing you finally have what it takes to help your kid through this world... and maybe even come out a little better because of it.
You’re Not imagining it…
Your kid loves this game. You love watching them play it. But somewhere along the way, you started lying awake, wondering if they're really okay.
You've watched your kid say they're fine when you knew they weren't. You've sat in the parent meeting before the season, holding one sheet of paper with the schedule and the rules, wondering why it feels like everyone else already knows how all of this works. You’ve driven home from a game not sure what you’re allowed to say, or whether you’re making it better or worse.
You love your kid more than anything.
But loving them through this world starts to look different than any love you’ve ever had to give them before. And all of a sudden, you’re not just parenting your kid. You’re trying to help them hold onto who they are inside of a world that keeps measuring what they do.
You’re trying to love them in a space where love can start to feel conditional, even when yours never has.
Let me tell you, that is the part no one prepares you for.No one tells you how hard it is to watch your child chase something they love while quietly wondering what it’s costing them.
No one tells you how careful your words will start to feel.
No one tells you how lonely it can be to sit in the stands, cheering for them, while also trying to read their face, protect their heart, manage your own emotions, and figure out how to be the safest place they still come back to, all while trying to figure out where the closest In and Out Is because food really does heal their hearts after a bad game.
This world asks so much of them. And it will ask so much of you.
So no, you’re not imagining any of it my loves…
You’re paying attention.
what you’ll find here
resources and tools
The guidance no one hands you at the parent meeting. Practical, science-backed courses and resources to help you support your athlete's mind, their game and their experience..
the athlete’s voice
Interviews and spotlights where the kids speak for themselves, so you hear not just from your own child, but from a whole generation telling us who they really are.
coffee and conversation
A community of parents from across the youth sports world, coming together for honest support, validation, and guidance, so no one walks this road alone.
hoop for hope
Events and advocacy that put mental health and personal development resources directly into the hands of families and the programs that serve them.
coming soon
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coming soon 〰️
“One day, i’ll write a book” -Heather Cleaves (1994, age 12)This isn't something I just decided to do. I've been writing since I was a little girl, my story, other people's stories. Helping others find their voice has always been my gift. What I didn't realize is that in doing it, I'd find mine too. This book has been on my heart for as long as I can remember. It's time to write it, not just for you, but for me too.
Hi, i’m heather!
I came to this world the same way you might have, a parent with a kid who loved this game. What I found in these gyms changed everything. I'd love to share a little of the story of how Human.Hooper.Hero came to life.
