Douglas Gardner

Douglas Gardner is an Instructor and Adjunct Professor specializing in Sport & Performance Psychology (SPP) at the University of Western States. With over 23 years of experience as a mental performance coach, he is a recognized leader in developing educational programs for athletes across youth, collegiate, and professional levels. His work spans traditional sports (e.g., Boston Red Sox, NFL Players Association) and emerging esports ecosystems.

• Key Roles: Core adjunct faculty at National University and Argosy University, curriculum developer for online master's and doctoral programs since 2008.
• Research Focus: Leadership, coaching behaviors, team dynamics, moral behavior in sports and esports.
• Advocacy: Champion for safe, healthy environments in athletics, emphasizing youth sport participation and ethical practices.

Dr. Gardner’s mentorship and educational initiatives aim to balance athletic and academic growth, impacting individuals from beginners to professional athletes.