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Sherry Winn: Champion Mindset & Overcoming Adversity

Monday, April 07, 2025

The Athlete's Edge: Sherry Winn's Secrets to Mental Strength & Peak Performance

"You were born to win, but to be a winner, you must plan to win, prepare to win, and expect to win." — Sherry Winn

Sherry Winn's journey from the basketball court to the Olympic stage and beyond is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Her story offers invaluable insights into overcoming adversity and achieving greatness.​

Let's dive into the highlights from this inspiring conversation with Sherry Winn.

From Humble Beginnings to Olympic Heights

Born on September 1, 1961, in Pecos, Texas, Sherry Winn's athletic prowess became evident early on. She attended the University of Charleston, where she not only excelled academically, graduating as valedictorian, but also set eight school records in basketball that stood for over two decades. Her collegiate success paved the way for her to represent the United States in team handball at the 1984 and 1988 Summer Olympics.

Sherry Winn Olympian

A Stellar Coaching Career

Transitioning from player to coach, Sherry took the helm of the Montana State University-Northern Skylights basketball team. Over five seasons, she amassed an impressive record of 137 wins to 19 losses, securing five Frontier Conference titles and leading the team to the 1993 NAIA Division II national championship. Her exceptional leadership earned her the NAIA Division II Coach of the Year award that same year.

Author and Motivational Speaker

Beyond the court, Sherry has channeled her experiences into writing and speaking. She is the author of several best-selling books, including "Unleash The Winner Within You: A Success Game Plan for Business, Leadership, and Life," and "Winning Leadership: Seven Secrets for Becoming a Truly Powerful Leader." Her works provide practical advice drawn from her extensive experience in leadership and personal development.

As a motivational speaker, Sherry captivates audiences with her authentic storytelling and actionable insights. She has delivered over 3,700 hours of leadership programs, working with organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to small businesses, imparting the principles of winning leadership and team building.

Overcoming Adversity and Inspiring Others

Sherry's journey has not been without challenges. She has faced severe depression and chronic pain, experiences that have deepened her understanding of resilience and fueled her passion for helping others overcome their own obstacles. Her philosophy emphasizes adaptability, the importance of a strong support system, and the power of a positive mindset in achieving success.

Sherry Winn Gold Medal Olympics

A Legacy of ExcellenceA Legacy of Excellence

Today, Sherry Winn continues to inspire individuals and organizations to pursue excellence, embrace challenges, and lead with purpose. Her legacy is one of unwavering determination, transformative leadership, and a commitment to empowering others to unleash their full potential.​

​For those seeking guidance on leadership, overcoming adversity, or achieving personal and professional goals, Sherry's insights offer a roadmap to success grounded in real-world experience and profound wisdom.​Today, Sherry Winn continues to inspire individuals and organizations to pursue excellence, embrace challenges, and lead with purpose. Her legacy is one of unwavering determination, transformative leadership, and a commitment to empowering others to unleash their full potential.​

If Sherry's story fired you up, there’s more where that came from. Catch the full episode on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform.

And don’t miss the free resources from Challenger Deep: Athletes Rising Above Adversity—visit www.ConfidentAthleteProgram.com/ChallengerDeep to access everything we offer from the book.

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We all face adversity. It's how we choose to respond to it that determines who we become...

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Jeff Heggie

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