We sat down with Vodar CEO Karina Karaga, who shared the '1+1' Philosophy that brings coaches and parents together to support the mental development of junior athletes. Together with co-founder Radinela Dimitrakova, they lead a team of sports mental coaches and tech specialists, providing a comprehensive mental coaching system through the Vodar mobile app and the Vodar MindLabs community, trusted by parents and coaches to help raise resilient junior athletes.
So Karina, why does Vodar focus specifically on the mental coaching of junior athletes?
Well, the earlier we start training the body, the stronger it becomes. The same is true for the mind. Science shows that young brains are far more receptive to learning new skills and integrating them until they become second nature. As you know, in tennis, we invest heavily in technique and physical training, yet the number one reason juniors drop out is mental: pressure, frustration, anxiety, and loss of confidence. To protect the kids’ love for the sport and help them grow into resilient, adaptable athletes, we have to start developing their mental skills from a young age.
That makes sense.
Yes, but beyond an improvement in athletic performance, our greater purpose is to help juniors develop the mental skills they need to face challenges on and off the court with confidence and self-awareness. Vodar teaches them not just tennis skills, but life skills that prepare them for the world beyond sport.
Why is the app intentionally designed for both tennis parents and coaches?
Vodar is a training ecosystem that brings together the two most influential figures in a junior athlete’s life: the parent and the coach, and creates consistent support and empowers the child through a shared language and approach. With the training resources in our mobile app and the Vodar MindLabs community we enable a continuous training process that starts at home, flows into the car ride to the court, peaks during the session, and then gets properly integrated after training or a tournament. When coaches and parents work as a team and are equipped with the right knowledge and tools, they unlock their superpower: raising resilient juniors while building an even more meaningful relationship with them. After all, that’s the kind of shift that can change the future of every young athlete!
What is the ‘1+1 Philosophy’ behind Vodar, and how does it shape your approach to mental development?
Our 1+1 philosophy allows either the parent or the coach to purchase an annual membership, with the other person automatically receiving access as well, creating an optimal training process on an easily accessible platform. Making Vodar the most affordable and holistic mental-coaching solution on the market was a priority for us, especially as the financial burden on parents continues to grow each year.
Why do you think that is this the right moment to introduce Vodar to the industry?
The tennis industry is at a crossroads. Globally, the sport is shifting - faster, flashier, more entertaining. Social media, tournaments, and even training are increasingly focused on spectacle. But where does the athlete’s development fit into all this? In this high-pressure, distraction-filled environment, their mental strength, abilities, and future success are at stake. We need balance. Entertainment is exciting, but education is essential.
Finally, what is the role of Tennis Europe in this mission?
We recognize Tennis Europe as a visionary early partner in setting a new standard for athlete development and advancing holistic coaching across the continent. As the most influential organization with an unmatched track record in shaping young athletes, Tennis Europe provides a unique platform for introducing Vodar. Together, we work hand in hand to make mental coaching an integral part of every session in a way that feels both natural and exciting for the entire industry.
For more information regarding Vodar go to: www.vodar.app