As part of our Unmasking Strength series this October, we’ve invited athletes to share the personal side of their journeys—focusing on how they maintain mental and emotional strength in and out of their sports. For Manteo Mitchell, a bobsled athlete who has faced numerous hurdles throughout his career, every challenge has been an opportunity to learn and grow. With his family’s support as his anchor, Manteo’s journey is not just about competition; it’s about overcoming adversity and inspiring others to embrace their own struggles. Here, Manteo opens up about the lessons he’s learned and the powerful role his loved ones play in his life.
Q&A:
What’s a challenge you’ve faced, on or off the field, and how did you overcome it?
“I have had many setbacks in sport. Whether it be injuries or just things not going the way you planned due to outside sources and life, there has always been something. I turned those setbacks into setups. What can I do the next time to ensure that thing that happened to me before doesn’t happen again? It’s inevitable that we will have adversity. Try to look at it differently and move forward, always.”
How do you take care of your mental health?
“My mental health is trained just as much, if not more than my physical body is. You can be in the best shape of your life, on top of the world in your event — but if you aren’t mentally sound, it is already over. I talk to a therapist. I also do the following: brain and eye training (they are linked, just trust me on this one), breathing and meditation. I also prioritize my family and those I love and care for over anything and everything. Music takes me to another place as well, so that has been a very useful tool in my bag.”
What’s something about you that might surprise people?
“I am a neat freak. My closet is color-coordinated. My shoes are all in clear display boxes. I love cleaning (house and cars) and detailing. It’s a great escape from intense training and helps me calm my mind and hone in on accomplishing a task that doesn’t have a medal or prize attached to it other than just checking a box.”
What motivates you to keep going, even when things get tough?
“My motivation is simple — my family! They have sacrificed so much for me to be able to do what I love through sport. I know that even if they aren’t present around the globe with me all the time, they are still there in spirit and rooting for me to be the best version of myself in life and in sport. Things always get tough, but the better prepared you are, the easier it gets. #FaithFocusFinish”
Manteo’s journey reminds us that strength isn’t solely defined by victories; it’s shaped by how we respond to the challenges we face. His dedication to mental health, coupled with the grounding influence of his family, showcases a deep understanding of what it means to be resilient. Manteo’s experiences teach us the importance of turning setbacks into setups and the value of maintaining a tidy space—both physically and mentally. In sharing his story, Manteo not only reflects on his path but also encourages us all to cherish our support systems and to find strength in the face of adversity.
Manteo’s journey reminds us that strength isn’t solely defined by victories; it’s shaped by how we respond to the challenges we face. His dedication to mental health, coupled with the grounding influence of his family, showcases a deep understanding of what it means to be resilient. Manteo’s experiences teach us the importance of turning setbacks into setups and the value of maintaining a tidy space—both physically and mentally. In sharing his story, Manteo not only reflects on his path but also encourages us all to cherish our support systems and to find strength in the face of adversity.