Encinitas youth commissioners hear coach Bree on mental health in sports; approve Jan. 7 minutes

Feb. 4, 2026 — The Encinitas Youth Commission heard a presentation from coach Bree, founder of Etho Elite, on combining mental-health practices with youth sports and later approved the Jan. 7 meeting minutes. Bree described a program of weekly "movement and mindset" sessions, teen retreats and school-based modules intended to help student-athletes manage anxiety and build resilience.

Speaking to the commission, Bree said she designed programming ‘‘to reclaim the joy of the game’’ and emphasized simple, repeatable practices. "One of the strategies is self," she said, describing an exercise in which students list strengths, controllables and commitment statements to reframe anxiety and focus on what they can control. Bree told commissioners her work includes journaling, mindfulness, guest speakers (children’s psychologists and strength coaches) and mentorship that pairs older and younger athletes.

Commissioners praised the presentation and asked about reach and inclusivity. Bree said the program is open to "any and all sport," has run sessions for high-school-age students and has worked with Pacific Ridge and Carlsbad schools. "These are tools that are invaluable and that you're gonna use in everyday life," she said.

On formal business, the commission voted on approval of the Jan. 7 minutes. Vice chair Hubbell moved to approve; a commissioner seconded. The roll-call vote recorded eight ayes and one abstention (Commissioner Merrick abstained); the motion carried and the minutes were approved.

The commission did not take action on policy around sports programs during the meeting; commissioners discussed incorporating presentations into future meetings and encouraged staff to help coordinate speaker scheduling and logistics. The meeting adjourned at 5:33 PM.