Competing with Empathy Workshop

Eagle Hill students learn how to build stronger teams through effective communication in challenging situations.

This fall, student-athletes at Eagle Hill attended Competing with Empathy, a workshop led by Dave Allen, the head coach of Mount Holyoke’s diving and swimming teams. The interactive workshop was offered through a partnership with the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) and focused on how empathy can enhance team dynamics and individual performance in sports.

“Workshops like Competing with Empathy help facilitate a positive culture within our athletic program and, moreover, within our individual teams.”

Ian Kelly, assistant director of athletics

 

The program emphasizes that sports are about building connections, developing trust, and fostering understanding and respect to create a team environment where everyone can thrive. Throughout the session, Coach Allen introduced the “PACT” framework to help athletes apply empathy in their daily lives: Purpose, Attitude, Communication, and Teamwork. By embracing these four principles, athletes can become better competitors and more compassionate teammates. As the workshop concluded, Coach Allen left the students with a powerful message: the most successful teams aren’t those with the most talent but those with the strongest bonds and the deepest levels of empathy.

Reflecting on the session, Ian Kelly, assistant director of athletics at Eagle Hill, stated, “Workshops like Competing with Empathy help facilitate a positive culture within our athletic program and, moreover, within our individual teams.”

Coach Allen’s visit is a reminder that sports are not just about individual glory but about creating a culture of collaboration, support, and respect.