Discipline in Motion: Inside the Mind of a Global Competitor

By Dr. Brittney Clinton | Wednesday, January 28, 2026 | SportsTalk

“Across the Atlantic: The Global Grit of Faye Janse” 

A 4-Week Online Feature Series Interviewed by Dr. Brittney Clinton

Discipline is not simply a routine for Faye Janse—it is a mindset in motion. As a global  competitor navigating the demands of academics, athletics, and cultural transitions, Faye  embodies what it means to stay mentally sharp while physically prepared. This feature takes us  inside her approach to focus, resilience, and the unseen work that fuels her performance both on  and off the field. 

Dr. Brittney Clinton: Walk us through a typical training day during the season—what does  discipline look like for you? 

Faye Janse: A typical training day during the season usually starts with a team meeting where  we analyze video from practice or games. After that, we head to the locker room to get ready,  changing, preparing mentally, and grabbing a small snack. Then we have a two-hour field  session, followed by a lifting/and or fitness session afterward. 

For me, discipline looks like consistency. Discipline on the field is necessary for developing  strong stick skills, maintaining a good attitude, and building strength and fitness. But discipline  off the field is just as important. Prioritizing sleep, nutrition, recovery, and academic planning all  matter. It’s a full circle, and everything comes back to discipline in the end. 

I truly believe discipline is greater than motivation. Motivation depends on how you feel that  day, but discipline is about showing up whether you feel like it or not. That’s why during breaks,  I love working out in the mornings. I put on my workout clothes without thinking and just go.  Afterward, I feel accomplished. I’ve already done something for myself, and that gives me  energy for the rest of the day, energy I can then share with the people around me. 

Dr. Brittney Clinton: How do you stay mentally focused during high-pressure games and  intense competition? 

Faye Janse: I remind myself of my “why”. I look around at my teammates and stay present in  the moment. I can only control what’s happening right then, and I want to give everything I have  so I never walk off the field with regret. 

I usually write something on my hand, number 5, for Maria Whitehead. That reminds me of my  purpose and why I fight so hard. I also believe that pressure is a privilege. I try to reframe  pressure into something positive instead of seeing it as a burden. 

I focus on controlling the controllable. If my stick skills aren’t perfect in a moment, I work back  harder, defend harder, and let my body do the work. Staying present, trusting my preparation,  and competing for something bigger than myself keeps me grounded.

Dr. Brittney Clinton: What leadership lessons have you learned as an international athlete  within a U.S. team environment? 

Faye Janse: One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that great leaders are great listeners.  Leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice, it’s about understanding people. I’ve also learned  the importance of the “winning formula”: people, culture, preparation, and execution. 

We’ve talked a lot about shifting away from fear-based leadership toward a culture rooted in  love, connection, and trust. That shift creates confidence, growth, and accountability. I strongly  believe in servant leadership, the idea that leadership means serving others, not being served. 

Flipping the traditional pyramid has been powerful. Coaches and leaders supporting players,  seniors supporting underclassmen. This creates an environment where everyone feels valued and  empowered. Small acts of kindness matter. Intentionally supporting teammates every day adds  up and creates real, lasting change. 

Ubuntu captures this perfectly: I am because we are. That mindset has shaped the way I lead and  the way I show up for my team. 

Dr. Brittney Clinton: How do setbacks or losses shape your mindset moving forward? 

Faye Janse: Failing is okay. What matters is how you respond. I believe setbacks are lessons,  and every mistake is an opportunity to grow. A winner is just a loser who tried one more time. 

I remind myself of my purpose and my why. Giving up is not an option. Your body is capable of  more than your mind tells you. Often, when your legs feel heavy or your lungs burn, it’s mental  fatigue—not your true limit. Your brain exaggerates discomfort to protect you, but you can push  beyond that. 

I believe in moving forward together. If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go  together. 

Dr. Brittney Clinton: What separates good athletes from great ones at this level of play? 

Faye Janse: It’s the work done outside of practice. The extra reps, the discipline, and the  consistency when no one is watching. Talent can get you here, but it won’t keep you here. 

Great athletes show up every day with intention, even when it’s hard. They are coachable and  self-aware. They take feedback seriously, apply it quickly, and take responsibility for their  growth instead of making excuses. 

They know how to compete under pressure. They stay present, trust their preparation, and  embrace uncomfortable moments. They don’t need to be perfect,they need to be resilient.

Most importantly, great athletes elevate the people around them. They set standards, bring  energy, and create accountability. At this level, the difference isn’t just how well you play. It’s  how you prepare, how you respond to adversity, and how you impact others every single day. 

Faye’s discipline is a quiet force—steady, intentional, and deeply rooted in purpose. It is  this inner framework that allows her to compete globally while remaining grounded personally.  As her journey continues, one thing is clear: her greatest strength lies not only in how she plays,  but in how she thinks, prepares, and perseveres.

Follow Faye Janse’s global journey beyond the  field—where sport, culture, and purpose intersect. Experience her international explorations and  student-athlete life by connecting on TikTok and Instagram @fayejanse.

For academic or  professional inquiries, Faye may be reached directly at jansfe23@wfu.edu.

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Dr. Brittney Clinton is a content educational practitioner currently serving as an Associate Professor at Westcliff University, Dissertation Committee Member, independent published author, and compassionate leader that attracts other professionals, scholars, and individuals in the community with a devoted purpose to empower, educate, and support others. Previously, Dr. Clinton served various leadership roles in Winston-Salem, NC with the following organizations: Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc and The Order of the Eastern Star PHA 30th District. Dr. Clinton currently serves as a board member for the city of Winston-Salem, NC Appearance and Commission Board. Dr. Clinton graduated from the following prestigious institutions: Winston-Salem State University, B.A. Sociology/Elementary Education 2009, Strayer University, MA Education Leadership and Management 2012, and Capella University, Ed. D Education Leadership and Management 2015. Dr. Clinton founded the motto “Continue to be a beacon of light”; which is implemented daily while effectively illuminating a successful path for others.

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