About The Mental Lap
The Mental Lap is built on a simple belief: the best athletic guidance comes from athletes who've walked the path you're on.
Our Mission
We deliver athlete-to-athlete mental performance tools, track & field form analysis, recruiting guidance, and live workshops—built by and for competitors. Our platform bridges the gap between elite college experience and developing athletes at all levels.
Meet Our Coaches
Skyla Wilson
UPenn Track & Field | Hurdler & Sprinter
Skyla is a Penn graduate who left her mark on the program with multiple school records. Her achievements include:
- Indoor 60H: 8.29 (Program Record)
- Outdoor 100H: 13.45 (Program Record)
- 200m: 23.54 (Program Record)
- 400H: 58.26 (Program Record)
- 4x400 Relay: 3:35.19 indoor, 3:32.12 outdoor (Program Records)
As an NCAA East Prelim qualifier and First-Team All-Ivy selection, Skyla brings elite competitive experience to her coaching. Her neuroscience background and pre-med track give her unique insights into the mental aspects of performance.
"In hurdles, rhythm is everything—find your tempo, then trust it. Use track as a source of fun and let that joy fuel your performance."
Skyla's Coaching Focus:
- Hurdle rhythm and technical precision
- Sprint mechanics and speed development
- Relay culture and team dynamics
- Competition mindset and visualization
Birgen Nelson
Mental Performance Coach & Leader
Birgen brings a wealth of leadership and coaching experience from her diverse background:
- Mental Performance Coach at Athlete To Athlete (Nov 2023–Jan 2025)
- Graduate Teaching Assistant at Duke Sanford School
- Student Senate Co-President at Gustavus (Feb 2022–Sep 2023)
- Track & Field Student Assistant Coach (Sep 2020–Sep 2023)
- Community Outreach Coordinator and Policy Consultant
Her multifaceted experience in athletics, academics, and community service shapes her holistic approach to athlete development.
"Small habits build resilient competitors. Success isn't about perfection—it's about consistent progress and learning from every experience."
Birgen's Specialties:
- Mental resilience and performance psychology
- Time management for student-athletes
- Sprint and hurdle technical analysis
- Leadership development and team building
- College recruiting navigation
Why Choose The Mental Lap?
Athlete-Tested Methods
Every technique and strategy we teach has been proven in competition at the highest collegiate levels.
Personalized Approach
We understand that every athlete is unique. Our coaching adapts to your specific needs and goals.
Holistic Development
We address mental, technical, and strategic aspects of performance for complete athletic growth.
Peer Connection
Learn from coaches who recently faced the same challenges you're experiencing now.
Ready to elevate your mental performance?
Join The Mental Lap and learn from athletes who've achieved what you're working toward.
Get Started Today