Programs

Programs Built for Real Support

From fully funded therapy to problem-gambling awareness, our programs meet student-athletes where they are — removing barriers, building skills, and changing the culture around mental health in sports.

Program 01

Mental Health Scholarship

The AFA Scholarship Program provides underserved collegiate student-athletes with fully funded access to licensed mental health professionals and certified mental performance coaches — at no cost to the athlete or family.

What We Offer
  • 12 or 16 funded sessions with licensed therapists or mental performance coaches
  • One-on-one, athlete-centered care rooted in sport psychology and clinical best practices
  • A custom matching process based on athlete needs, goals, and provider preferences
  • No cost to the athlete or family — providers are paid directly
  • Support across the full academic year (September–April)
Who We Serve
  • Underserved collegiate student-athletes across the U.S.
  • Student-athletes from any sport, competition level, or background
  • Priority given to athletes with limited access to support, underrepresented backgrounds, or those involved with Morgan’s Message or The Hidden Opponent
Scholarship Metrics

What awardees report

100%
Felt their therapist understood them and that they were developing a therapeutic relationship
93%
Learned & implemented coping skills to increase functioning and performance
90%
Noticed a decrease in symptoms of concern and progress in their treatment
Explore the Scholarship Fund a Scholarship
Program 02

Smart Choices for Athletes

A collaboration between the University of Maryland School of Medicine’s Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling and Alston for Athletes — a one-hour presentation raising mental health and problem-gambling awareness for collegiate student-athletes in Maryland.

Program Goals

Awareness

Raise awareness on problem gambling, how it connects to mental health, and why student-athletes are especially at risk.

Storytelling

Hear stories from those with lived experience with mental illness and problem gambling.

Share Resources

Maryland Coalition of Families, GamCare, Draw The Line, The Problem Gambling Podcast, QuitGamble, Gambless, and more.

Program Metrics

The impact so far

1,006
Collegiate student-athletes reached between 2024–2025
92%
Feel equipped to recognize problem-gambling signs after the presentation
95%
Had never attended any programming related to problem gambling
Explore Smart Choices Bring It to Your School

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