Manning`s Fleming builds family atmosphere with the Monarchs

.....The first step in building those relationships is simple: just listen.

"Just someone to talk to for guidance. Sometimes they just want to be heard and don`t have anyone to talk to. Not even being 40 years old, I kinda can relate to them," said Fleming. "I give them my number, they can call me any time with any kind of problems just to let them know that we`re here for them for more than just football."......

......"Mental health is the big thing right now," said Fleming. "Some kids don`t do well being home. We don`t know their home life, if they`re eating. Some of them have had to become the head of household and go to work because their parent is laid off.

"It`s important just to get them in a good mental space, because without being in a good mental space, nothing good can happen for you. We`re just trying to get them in a good mental space, get them back out there, get the lactic acid out of them and just prepare to have a successful season."

It can be very difficult for men to have conversations about emotions and mental health, but Fleming has tried to open the door for his players to have those conversations with him......

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Bethany`s Notes: A great story about a great coach who builds the relationships with this athletes by listening. Sometimes we can all learn to listen more and fix less.