MENTAL PERFORMANCE INTERN

ABOUT THE CLUB

Minnesota Aurora FC is a community-owned women’s soccer team based in the Twin Cities, with over 5,000 community owners across all 50 states and 19 countries. The team plays in the pre-professional USL W League, featuring top amateur and aspiring professional players from Minnesota and around the globe. The club is operated by a women-led front office and coaching staff.

OUR VALUES

Inclusivity:
We uphold and defend the right for all people to live without hatred, violence, and discrimination by committing to and prioritizing equality in every decision we make.

Empowerment:
We champion the advancement and freedom of women and gender-expansive individuals by investing in their growth on and off the field.

Accessibility:
We ensure soccer is for everyone by removing barriers and creating more equitable access for players and fans.

Transformation:
We spark positive change in soccer, women’s sports, and communities by fostering transparency, humility, innovation, and collaboration.

INTERNSHIP PROGRAM EXPECTATIONS

Interns are expected to actively participate in the organization, as required of all staff, in preparation for and during the season. This includes:

• Pre-season exhibition games (early May)
• All home games
• Post-season playoff games (weekends in July)

Interns may also be required to attend other department-led events, such as:

• Kit reveal events
• Community owner events
• Inventory organization
• Season ticket-holder events
• Volunteer appreciation events

Minnesota Aurora FC expects clear and immediate communication if you are unable to attend an event or require schedule adjustments.

Interns are also expected to:

• Participate in regular one-on-one meetings with their manager
• Attend department meetings

POSITION OVERVIEW

This internship is part of the Minnesota Aurora FC program, designed to create opportunities for individuals historically underrepresented in sports to develop professionally through hands-on, meaningful experience that directly contributes to the club’s growth and development.

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Mental Performance Coach Intern

Manager: Jen Larrick
Department: Sporting
Duration: May – end of season (July 18 at longest)
Hours: 10–15 hours per week

Goal / Intended Outcome:
Support the development and execution of mental training strategies designed to optimize player performance. Gain hands-on experience applying mental performance principles as part of the sporting staff.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and deliver regular mental performance sessions (individual and group formats) based on fundamental concepts
• Observe practices and games to assess mental performance trends and gather behavioral data
• Collaborate with coaching staff to integrate mental skills into performance settings
• Evaluate and assess the effectiveness of mental performance interventions
• Actively support a team culture aligned with the organization’s values
• Develop and provide resources to athletes to support mental skills learning

COMPENSATION

This internship is unpaid.

INTERNSHIP BENEFITS

• Join the Minnesota Aurora FC staff and be part of the team
• Participate in staff meetings and events
• Work on meaningful projects that directly support Minnesota Aurora FC
• One-on-one time with a front-office staff member
• Discounted merchandise
• Access to training and educational opportunities
• Opportunities to participate in other Aurora activities as interested