While much of the country is focused on whether the Kansas City Chiefs or the Philadelphia Eagles will win the Super Bowl, Dr. Shaun Tyrance is focused on the Chiefs’ mental health, a job he enjoys.
Tyrance, who graduated from UNCG in 2003 with a master’s degree from the Sport and Exercise Psychology program, is the Vice President of Player Services and Assessment for the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs. In this role, he is responsible for the mental health and wellbeing of the organization. He’s tasked with supporting the mental health for all players, coaches, and staff of the organization, so the team can perform at its best.
He was the Chiefs’ first in-house clinician, and the second in the NFL, before the position was mandated by the League. A few years ago, Tyrance hired a second person to assist him in focusing on the wellness of the Chiefs’ business staff, so he can focus on the organization’s players and coaches.
(The Chiefs) were on the forefront to integrating mental health in the organization, and hopefully I’ve helped a little bit with our success, I think I’m one of the most integrated resources in professional sports. Our head coach, GM (general manager), owner and president have all bought into this.
Dr. Shaun Tyrance
Tyrance said at some point in the season, every player will struggle with something, and his position helps the team succeed.
“I work on getting them to prepare on a high-level all year long. This includes getting good sleep, taking care of the body, and practicing mindfulness,” Tyrance said. “I help everyone figure out their individual strengths and weaknesses and put a plan together to help them perform at an optimal level.”
He said the plan may include visualization, relaxation techniques, or other practices so the mind and body are calm. It’s also important to have recovery during the week, so the person is ready on game day.
The techniques don’t change based on the time of year — even if the team is getting ready for its third Super Bowl in three years.
“We don’t change what we do. We try to be consistent, no matter the game. There’s no more emphasis or preparation on any game,” Tyrance said. “It takes a certain amount of work to win a game, and I think (being consistent) helps us put us in the right mental state. If we did something different, it would be more detrimental.”
Tyrance said he has been around some teams that may watch more game film or have more meetings prior to certain games, which could cause a reaction in the players. By the Chiefs keeping things the same throughout the year, it allows the players and coaches to remain focused for the Super Bowl.
And while some Chiefs players receive more media attention throughout the year than others, Tyrance said it is the lesser-known players who may experience more distractions during big games.
They may get more requests from their local media outlets or others who know them, We have a great PR (public relations) team to help them.
Dr. Shaun Tyrance
Tyrance said it also helps that the team has been to the Super Bowl recently, so staff, coaches and players know what to expect.
Some of the advice he gives members of the Chiefs’ organization are things he would recommend for the average person:
- Get the proper amount of good quality sleep;
- Get out and move your body daily; and
- Have good social support.
“Having friends and family to lean on and be in your corner is very important,” Tyrance said. “When you have a struggle, it can be isolating. It’s key to talk to other people to know you’re not alone.”
He said his profession is important for everyone.
“Mental health is something we all have. Some days we’re thriving, and some days we may be in crisis,” Tyrance said. “I tell everyone to find a therapist and build that into your mental health plan. We can all benefit from having someone to talk to year-round. Like going to an acupuncturist, or getting a massage, or getting exercise, we need to be proactive about our mental health.”
He also tells the team to be intentional with their free time. NFL teams will spend dozens of hours a week getting ready for games. This includes holidays and time away from important family events.
“When you get a moment to get away, take it. If you have an hour and you spend it scrolling on Facebook or Instagram instead of resting and taking time for yourself, it can impact your recovery,” Tyrance said. “A lot of times we don’t take full advantage of the time, so it doesn’t feel like a break.”
-Dr. Shaun Tyrance earned his master’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from UNCG. In addition, he also earned a Master of Education from N.C. State University and his Ph.D. from UNC Charlotte.
By Sarah Newell