Every student wants to feel they belong, but belonging doesn't start with participation, it starts with feeling understood. Drawing on 25+ years coaching and developing coaches across NCAA and youth sport in the US, we will explore how the small, everyday moments quietly tell a young person whether they're safe to be themselves. Through story, reflection and practical strategy, this session looks beyond behaviour to the individual behind it, and offers educators simple, immediate ways to build the kind of connection that keeps more students in the room, engaged, and curious.