Children who compete in sports or similar programs are often faced with myriad challenges. Young athletes must make time for after-school practices, dedicate their weekends to competitions and train at home. On top of this, many kids face the additional challenge of overcoming the anxiety that accompanies a big game. Carter Mealy, a 9-year-old student at Central Manor Elementary School, teamed up with his father, Todd, to publish a book with the goal of teaching kids how to be confident athletes and conquer stress like a champion.

Carter participates in a variety of sports year-round, including soccer, gymnastics, lacrosse and basketball. During practices, Todd noticed Carter was experiencing problems with anxiety that would arise when older kids were around; Carter worried what the more experienced athletes would think of him, and he was often concerned his performance wouldn't be adequate. Todd, who is a published author, was inspired to write a story that would empower kids like Carter who sometimes doubt their abilities. Todd suggested the idea to Carter, who immediately agreed to help, and the pair got to work.

During the process of writing the book, Todd would draft a few pages and take them to Carter to review. Todd has gained experience as both a football coach and an athlete, but he relied on the perspective Carter was able to provide as his editor. Although Todd is a seasoned author, having written multiple books, this was his first foray into the world of children's literature. "I figured I'd need his help trying to write a story for 7- and 8-year-olds," Todd said. "Carter was my inspiration, but his job was also to edit me and make sure we were speaking to that audience."

Todd and Carter's collaboration resulted in "Like a Champion," a 32-page book that was published on Nov. 10. The book teaches young children how to deal with their performance anxiety and equips their parents, teachers and coaches with a way to help them. The book tells the tale of a sloth named Champion who lacks the confidence to become an expert gymnast, and he struggles with anxiety when others see him practice. By focusing on his own improvement and developing confidence with the help of his coach, Champion learns how to conquer his fears. "Like a Champion" also includes various questions that align with Common Core curricula for teachers to use in their classrooms.

Carter said he enjoyed getting to see how a book is made, and he is already tossing around ideas for a sequel. "I would like to see if we can make a series out of Champion," said Carter. "I would like to write a children's book about Muhammad Ali's camp, Fighter's Heaven. Maybe it will be a story about Champion visiting Fighter's Heaven."

"Like a Champion" is available online from retailers such as Amazon and Barnes & Noble. For more information about Todd and his other published work, visit http://www.toddmealy.com.