Coach: Lisa Thompson
City: El Paso, Texas
Lisa Thompson, a highly respected motorsport coach in El Paso, Texas, has spent the past 18 years teaching young drivers the importance of teamwork and communication in achieving success on the track. While motorsports may seem like an individual pursuit, Coach Thompson believes that the support and collaboration of a strong team are crucial for a driver’s performance.
“Motorsports are far from a solo sport,” Coach Thompson explains. “Behind every successful driver is a dedicated team of mechanics, engineers, and strategists who work together to ensure the car is performing at its best.” In her training, Coach Thompson emphasizes the importance of fostering trust and communication between the driver and their team.
One of her key strategies is teaching drivers to communicate clearly and effectively during races. “When you’re on the track, you have a lot of things happening at once, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed,” she says. “But if the driver can relay important feedback to the crew, it helps everyone make quick adjustments and stay on top of any issues that arise.”
Coach Thompson also stresses the importance of understanding the technical side of motorsports. “A driver needs to know more than just how to turn a wheel,” she says. She works with her athletes to educate them about car setup, tire management, and fuel strategy. Understanding these elements allows drivers to make informed decisions during races and optimize their performance.
In addition to technical skills, Coach Thompson focuses on building mental toughness. “Motorsport drivers need to stay focused for hours, sometimes under extreme pressure,” she explains. She teaches her drivers mindfulness techniques to help them stay calm and focused when they’re behind the wheel, as well as how to stay resilient after setbacks like mechanical failures or tough races.
Over the years, Coach Thompson has seen several of her drivers go on to compete in national and international races, with some earning spots in professional racing series. “I’m proud of my athletes, not just because they win, but because they understand the value of teamwork and communication,” she says. “Motorsport is a team effort, and success is a reflection of everyone working together.”
For coaches starting out in motorsports, Coach Thompson advises, “Develop a deep understanding of the sport, but also learn to connect with your drivers on a personal level. Trust and communication are the keys to building a successful team.”