Today we’d like to introduce you to BJ Armstead.
BJ, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Absolutely. Thank you for asking! My story is extremely unique. I didn’t have who and what I wished I had growing up, so I became it.
Growing up in south Dekalb County in the early 2000s, we were always taught to show no emotion, especially in our youth. Sports was an outlet for us, but it didn’t mean we could FULLY express ourselves. For boys, toughness wasn’t really an option but a mere requirement. If we didn’t at least attempt to go to great lengths to display it, we’d be chastised by our coaches, parents, friends, and any other human being with warm blood running through their body.
Now, don’t get me wrong, on the surface, it sounds ASTONISHING (pretty much accomplishing) to be known as the hardest kid in the ATL. I mean with the influence of the introduction of crunk music, the Gucci Mane vs. Young Jeezy beef, and a young Tip, it meant the world to know others wouldn’t think twice about trying you. Sadly, later we’d mature into understanding that maybe this is not the most advantageous mindset to have.
We didn’t have any older guys that could give us tools, concepts, and skills to survive emotionally and logically. When I say older guys, I don’t mean our fathers, uncles, grandfathers, or even coaches and teachers who attempted to guide us along the way. They did a fantastic job providing us with the game they had! The only problem with that was the world was turning a little bit too fast and becoming something that they weren’t familiar with. We, as kids, were consuming things they had no idea existed. This made it more difficult for them to grab our ear even as we got older, and the world kept turning.
We needed somebody that was just a tad bit older than us who could guide us but still be able to speak our language and understand us spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically.
& For that reason…
I do what I do
This is why I became a Social Worker and Sport Psychologist.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Hmm, well It depends on what part of the process I’m in.
I use what I love to help me guide those in my community. As a former athlete, sports psychology for me means everything because the concepts not only apply to sports but also to life. I mean, if I could teach people how to use confidence, focus, stress management, mindfulness, and other concepts, I think it’d be extremely beneficial.
Now, on the other hand, the ability to actually get these concepts out hasn’t been the easiest. Sport Psychology is a newer field, so we are still in the process of marketing it and letting the world know it exist. But it’s like anything else. I mean, if you have something that you feel you are meant to do, what other option do you have but to keep going until you have fulfilled your responsibility?
I also understand that it’s not me doing this. This is what God called me to do. So, regardless of the struggles, I refuse to stop. Anyone or anything that trying to stop me has to answer to God.
I’m just the person he decided to pick to carry these concepts to groups of people.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I created my nonprofit for two reasons.
One, I wanted to make sure the concepts that I teach received as much exposure as possible. I know Sport Psychology (and athletes being allows to express themselves) is a newer concept that people are slowly warming up to. Thank you to Demar DeRozan, Kevin. Love, Naomi Osaka, and others, for speaking up on behalf of athletes and people in the community!
The other reason is because I wanted to make sure everyone could afford the services. They are 100% tax deductible, and I am able accept donations to provide resources for the community! Through this, we are able to provide scholarships, hold workshops, and conduct different drives to help out in the community.
In addition to individual and team sessions, we hold events, scholarships, backpack drives, and more!
We pride ourselves on being flexible and maintaining a sense of creativity to combine the aspects Mental Performance and Mental Health!
But you don’t have to be an athlete to receive services; we welcome all people who aspire to be better versions of themselves!
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Contact me on Instagram! @CoachBJArmstead I’d love to collaborate with those who share my vision and my passion to make an impact and get things done!
Also, Call or Email me!
404 915 9328
apollosports.365@gmail.com
I’m certainly a huge community guy and I love spreading knowledge to the world!
Pricing:
- Individual Sessions – $100
- Group/Team Sessions – $500
- Workshops – $500
- Presentations – $1,000
- Merchandise (Books, Clothing, etc.) – Contact
Contact Info:
- Website: apollosports.org
- Instagram: @CoachBJArmstead
- Youtube: apollosportscounseling
Image Credits
Dr. Omar Reid
Bubble Media
