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New Program!
Substance-Free Athletics
Protect their game!
Influence the Choice is excited to launch Substance-Free Athletics – PROTECT THEIR GAME! In partnership with
Issaquah School District coaches and athletic directors, thousands of high school athletes will receive substance
prevention lessons from one of their most trusted mentors—their coach. Engaging trusted figures like coaches in
substance prevention is a powerful way to connect with students and promote positive choices. Coaches often
hold a unique influence over athletes, and integrating these lessons into athletic programs can help ensure the
message resonates.
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Coaches Matter!
Coaches are more than just a leader on the field - they're a trusted mentor and role model who helps shape the
future of young athletes. ITC's Substance-Free Athletics curriculum is designed to support coaches in promoting a
healthy lifestyle among their team, free of substances.
By reinforcing the importance of staying substance-free, coaches help safeguard athletes' health, enhance their
performance, and build lasting, positive habits. When young athletes understand that staying substance-free is a
core expectation, they are more likely to make choices that align with that goal, respect their bodies, and avoid
pitfalls that could sideline them from sports and success.
The Impact of Substances on Athletic Performance.
Early Use Risks: Starting substance use at a young age increases the likelihood of developing a Substance-Use
Disorder (SUD). Early use can rewire a young brain, similar to altering a computer's programming.
Physical Effects: Substance use can impair vital organs like the heart, lungs & kidneys reducing stamina and
making breathing more difficult. This can also increase stress responses, leading to anxiety, depression, and
difficulties with concentration and focus.
Athletic Performance: Substances slow down reaction time and reduce focus, weakening your muscles. They can
also disrupt sleep, hindering recovery after practices & games.
Injuries: Substance-use increases the risk of injuries that might sideline a young athlete permanently.
Life Consequences: It can affect relationships, grades, and future opportunities in sports such as playing at the
collegiate level or beyond.
Email executive director, Marnie Maraldo, for more information: [email protected]
Disorder (SUD). Early use can rewire a young brain, similar to altering a computer's programming.
Physical Effects: Substance use can impair vital organs like the heart, lungs & kidneys reducing stamina and
making breathing more difficult. This can also increase stress responses, leading to anxiety, depression, and
difficulties with concentration and focus.
Athletic Performance: Substances slow down reaction time and reduce focus, weakening your muscles. They can
also disrupt sleep, hindering recovery after practices & games.
Injuries: Substance-use increases the risk of injuries that might sideline a young athlete permanently.
Life Consequences: It can affect relationships, grades, and future opportunities in sports such as playing at the
collegiate level or beyond.
Email executive director, Marnie Maraldo, for more information: [email protected]