When we teach riding skills, we’re already teaching mindset. With every cue, every conversation, every debrief, we help shape how young riders see themselves. So when a student-athlete apologizes for learning, it’s a perfect opportunity to practice a reframing skill that reaches far beyond mountain biking.

What if, instead of apologizing, we practiced gratitude?

Instead of: “Sorry I’m holding everyone up.”
Try: “Thanks for being patient with me today.”

Instead of: “Sorry I messed that up.”
Try: “Thanks for giving me the chance to try again.”

Instead of: “Sorry I needed to walk that section.”
Try: “Thanks for cheering me on while I figured it out.”

This simple switch builds connection instead of shame. Gratitude acknowledges others without undermining yourself. It replaces guilt with growth. It reinforces that everyone is on their own timeline and that progress isn’t something to apologize for.

Coaches of all genders can help reinforce this as well. When a girl apologizes for being slow or cautious, a gentle reminder like, “No need to apologize, you’re learning, and that’s what practice is for,” goes a long way. It signals that taking space to learn isn’t an inconvenience; it’s part of the team’s rhythm. By encouraging riders to use gratitude phrases with each other, such as “Thanks for encouraging me to try that!” or “Thanks for waiting while I had another go at that rock garden!”, we help create an environment where no one feels like a burden for learning.

This isn’t just about changing words, it’s about changing culture. When “sorry” becomes “thank you,” it builds a different kind of team atmosphere. It reminds every rider that they’re supported and seen, not judged. It’s an easy tool for coaches to integrate into practice language, race prep, or debriefs after challenging rides.

So let’s practice it. Let’s model it, coach it, and name it when we see it. Let’s turn those “sorry” moments into “thank you” moments until gratitude becomes the instinct instead of apology. Because when we teach confidence on the bike, we’re teaching it everywhere. And that’s what keeps riders coming back, stronger every time.