What others Say…
Here’s What athletes, coaches and Business say about John Novak
PRAISE FROM ATHLETES
“At the start, I didn’t really buy into the whole idea of talking to a mindset coach. I was shut off to thinking this would work. My confidence was gone, and I was thinking of retiring and finding some other job. But then, my wife arranged a session with John. After that first meeting, I was humbled and I was all in. I kept on booking sessions with him, and it’s been four years now. What I loved most was his focus on my family life as the foundation for everything else. John didn’t just pull me out of a rough patch; he got me back on track, playing good football again, and now playing the best of my career. The Boomerang Effect was one of my favourites and helped me so much. If you’re looking to level up, I can’t speak highly enough of John.”
Dallin Watene-Zelezniak
New Zealand Warriors 2021-2026 | Captain NZ Kiwis 2016-2023 | Canterbury Bulldogs 2019-2021 | Penrith Panthers 2014-2019
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I absolutely LOVED spending every minute with Johnny! I was blessed to be taught ways to bounce back, accept things in life/golf rounds and to be more kind to myself with encouragements as if I was caddying for someone else. To me, those key points hit me like no other psychologists have before.”
Grace Kim
Evian Championship Winner 2025
Lotte Championship Winner 2023
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“It’s about training yourself into that positive mindset and realising what a difference it can make. Whether it’s feedback from the players or giving back positive energy to them, you start to be on that positive wave-length together and it creates a different energy.”
Mick Ennis
Canterbury Captain
2012-2014
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Since working with John (2011-2016) I have won back to back world championship gold medals, four Commonwealth games medals including two gold and an Olympic bronze medal. I would highly recommend John Novak to any sports person or professional of any field.”
James Magnussen
2x World Swimming Champion
Olympic Medallist
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John Novak allowed me to bring my focus back to what is important and not let outside factors take or consume mental and physical energy that could take away from my on field performance. Distractions off the field are not worth the time and energy to focus on or fight. By being your best self and focusing on what works for you and how to improve this allows you to reproduce world class performances every time. Looking forward to working on a program that allows umpires to be consistent like self actualised athletes.”
Shawn Craig
International Cricket Umpire
Australian former first-class cricketer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John and The Boomerang Effect has completely transformed my mindset and approach to not only my sport but my life to become my best self. Sport, at the elite level is filled with constant challenges and adversity, and it’s often easy to fall into a negative mindset or unhelpful cycle. This can become a block to unleashing your full potential.
The boomerang effect has equipped me with the tools and strategies to eliminate negativity in my training and games. Most importantly it has helped me to attack any adversity that will come with a positive response and complete focus and self-awareness on a positive mindset. John has helped me to work towards mastering a process that helps me to be my absolute best self on the field in every moment. The answers to break negative cycles and to believe you are limitless are all in the boomerang effect it simply requires the athlete’s discipline and initiative to put words and strategies available into action. Being disciplined in your mindset, especially amidst adversity is the breakthrough point in this program and it has impacted me greatly.
John is an incredible person who not only understands what it takes to compete at the highest level but is an amazing facilitator in helping you understand you are limitless and the strategies you need to help you reach your full potential. His entire philosophy targets the core needs of an athlete when they are faced with adversity and there is no other program like it. John understands that mastering the mental side of sport can take you to levels you never thought possible. Thanks to his program I have a renewed understanding of myself and the strategies I need to compete at the highest level and reach my full potential. It’s an incredible journey.”
Deborah-Anne de la Harpe
Damallsvenskan club IFK Norrköping | A-League Women clubs Perth Glory | Sydney FC | Brisbane Roar | Danish Women’s League club HB Køge
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John’s program gave me the tools to understand and broaden my mental side of the game. The work he does with athletes is the key that turns good to great.”
Arjun Nair
Cricketer
New South Wales
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Since working with John, he has helped me develop tools to keep me in the now and even better deal with adversity. Can’t wait to see where this limitless mindset takes me. It’s not what happens what counts, it is how you react to it. Your mental attitude determines what you make of it.”
Blake Windred
Australian Professional Golfer
2021 Victorian PGA Championship
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Thanks to John I have a much more confident approach to my training and competitions and I know that whenever I need him to help me get back on track or boost my confidence!””
Josh Wu
Australian Weight Lifter
Senior Oceania Bronze Medallist
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I found John to be energetic and personally helped me to become my best self through these (Boomerang Effect) techniques.”
Mitchell Aubusson
Australian Professional Rugby League Footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Simple clarity in a field of complexity. It was John’s messages and principles that drew me in, it’s his incredible energy, passion and pasitivity that have me hooked. Proven strategies to be your best self in every moment, from social to elite performers, from sport to life.”
Matt Carraro
Brumbies Canberra | NSW Waratahs | Bath in England |
Toulon France | Rugby Coach Newington College
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Since working with John, has helped me improve my focus, concentration and mind talk, allowing me to be more effective in my performance.”
Lopini Paea
International Rugby League Footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I believe and practise all the various principles John teaches and I’ve seen many results in my performance on the field and life in general.”
Sam Perrett
Former Rugby Professional Player
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“It’s about limiting external distractions and making sure I’m not wasting my energy on little things.”
David Warner
Alan Border Medallist 2017
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I am a lot more confident and positive. I learnt some really good techniques that I can use in football and life.”
Riley Brown
Australian former professional Rugby League footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“His strategies have helped me be more positive in the mind and the body.”
Iwi Hauraki
New Zealand former Professional Rugby League
and Rugby Union Footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“The Boomerang Effect program has made me really aware of the power of the NOW. By focusing on the NOW I am able to eliminate negative thoughts. Boomerang Effect enables me to play limitless golf and allows me to be free minded. By throwing a good boomerang, great things will always come back.”
Harrison Endycott
Professional Golf Player
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“The Boomerang Effect really resonated with me on a number of different levels. But the biggest one for me was ‘What you put in, is what you get back’. I try to go through life being as positive and nice as I can for that exact reason. To know that it will all come back. Really impressed with your program John and I took so much from it.”
Api Koroisau
Fijian International Rugby League Footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John has taught me many valuable skills for both golf and life. His knowledge and wisdom has allowed me to advance my understanding and assist me in becoming my best self. I’m very thankful for his work.”
Belinda Ji
Professional Golfer
South Australian Amateur Champion
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I’ve learnt more about myself in the last 3 sessions with John than what I’ve learnt in the last 2 years.”
Jordan Garner
Professional Golfer
NSW Golf Representative
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“What Johnny teaches is so poweful to life and the game of golf. From the affirmations to the conscious mindful decisions, it’s seriously a game changer and I love it. Disciplines and patience with a cool as calm as body language was the secret to this victory.”
Cameron Jackson
Australian Junior Golfer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I started working with John when I was 12, looking to find an advantage on the golf course by focusing on what happens between my two ears! Turns out the early investment in working on my mindset wasn’t just beneficial for my game then, but more than a decade later, super impactful on my personal and professional endeavours. The Boomerang Effect is so powerful in its teachings, so once you learn it, there’s no going back. It’s been of such tremendous help to have built a solid foundation around the power of our minds. The growth mindset is so critical and I’m still practising everything I’ve learned with John to this day.“
Cathleen Santoso
Australian Amateur Golfer
Played on the team at the University of Oregon
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Working with my sports mindset coach, John Novak has been a game-changer. His passion and expertise are unmatched, and his unwavering support has helped me surpass my limits. From the start, Johnny understood my needs and tailored our sessions accordingly. Through exercises and discussions, he guided me to explore my mindset and beliefs, helping me challenge self-imposed limitations. Teachings on resilience, focus, and mental strength have transformed my performance, both in and out of the ring.
In a safe and supportive environment, Johnny believed in my potential and motivated me to pursue excellence. His guidance has been invaluable, and I wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone seeking to “unleash your true potential”.“
Linn Sandstrom
World Boxing Association (WBA)
Intercontinental Super Flyweight Champion
Ranked 6th in the World WBA
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I can’t thank John Novak and the Boomerang Effect enough. As an amateur golfer we of course want to play the game as best we can. When I became a member of one of the countries top private golf clubs I felt like a fish out of water. My game went from good to horrible in a few weeks, and I could not get past the mental blocks I was causing myself which were destroying my swing and game. My confidence went to zero quickly, and my game and love of the sport suffered. John taught me how to overcome these mental blocks, and to teach me ways to stay calm and relaxed on the course. Since our sessions, my game is back better than ever, and I have the tools to use on the course to keep my mental game and confidence at peak performance. I can’t recommend his program enough.”
Dr. Matthew Alch
Chiropractor
Amateur Golfer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“In a nutshell, I have seen a massive improvement in my golf game/practice AND mindset over the past weeks and it couldn’t have been done without and your amazing book!! I feel better, more confident, and overall just lots and lots of smiles. Of course no where near perfect but all that makes me feel great is the improvement. Practice has felt great, comps feel super enjoyable – every shot (well 9.5 times out of 10) is just fully committed, no wishy washy! Visualisation, breathing and routine have been my biggest best friends at the moment!“
Irene Kaloudis
Australian Golfer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John’s passion, energy and care for my development is unmatched. I found it so easy to form a strong relationship with him and together we were able to develop & tailor the best mindset to bring out the best possible version of me in the heat of the battle. Unlocking my best self has helped me continue to reach new heights in the game and enjoy every bit of the journey along the way.”
Chris Green
South African-Australian Cricketer
New South Wales | Sydney Thunder
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I cannot thank John enough for the way he has changed
my mindset around training and racing in less than a year working with him! His dedication and passion for seeing athletes is very evident in the way he supports you. Always feels like you have a number one supporter whenever you chat to him.”
George Pankhurst
Australian Rep in Canoe Slalom C1 Men
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John was an asset to my team like every camp.
He’s able to mentally prepare me for anything
that comes my way and completely understands me
and my mission. I couldn’t have done it without him.”
Brianna Harrison
New Australian Flyweight Champion
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John was the mindset coach for Sydney FC during the 2022-2023 A-League Men’S season. His tenure coincided with a run that took us to within one game of the Grand Final.
His experience both as an elite athlete and mindset coach makes him uniquely placed to understand the various physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual demands of success in elite sport. He has shown his methods to be successful in all manner of both team and individual sports.
More than simply presenting his methods, John is the living embodiment of them. He is, without exception, positive, open, empathetic and genuine at all times.”
Steve Corica
Head Coach
Sydney FC A-League Men’s
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Johnny’s energy bought our whole change-room to the next level this season. It is infectious. It penetrates your mindset and his theories are easily put into practice. Thanks for everything Johnny!”
Andrew Redmayne
Australian Goalkeeper
Sydney FC
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John Novak is an integral contributor and supporter to myself and my journey, both on and off the Rugby League field. John has given me the tools and taught me how to use them in any situation, determine what is holding me back and what I need to do in order to move forward.
He helped me understand what resilience is, and see that my potential is limitless. This knowledge and skill set is something that I use in all aspects of my life, and is now part of my ethos.
His energy and passion for life is contagious and am I grateful for his wisdom, teachings and friendship.”
Marty Taupau
Bulldogs 2010-2013 | Tigers 2014-2015 |
Manly 2016-2019 | NZ Rugby League Rep
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I am an Olympic Diver and I’ve been seeing John since 2014. Prior to starting with John I experienced a high level of competition anxiety, despite being a very experienced competitor. I had seen several sports psychologists with no results.
John has such a different perspective and I immediately felt like he was a good fit for me. I worked closely with John to begin with and I left every consult feeling more positive about diving and life in general. The Boomerang Effect and the way John implements it has completely changed my mindset both in and out of competition. John gave me the tools to control my environment and emotions so that I am now able to overcome any adversity. John goes above and beyond and has been there any time I have needed him.
The Boomerang Effect is something quite unique and it has had a profound effect on my sporting career.”
Melissa Wu
Australian Diver & 5x Olympian | Silver and Bronze Olympic Medallist | Gold Commonwealth Games
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“My name is Samantha Dirks and I represented Belize in track and field in the 2017 London World Championship and 2021 Tokyo Olympics. I worked with Johnny for a shorter part of a really mentally challenging year for me leading to the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. I had lost interest in my sport of Track and field and competing in general. My family found Johnny and connected me with him and from the very first conversation, I felt so much lighter. We got to know each other and I began to look forward to our conversations every week. He taught me a lot about trusting the work I have put in and believing in myself and my abilities. I had lost that trust and fell into a slump with my competition. After preparing mentally with Johnny for only a few months I had a seasons best in all of my disciplines! Not only did he help me elevate my mental for my sport but also my relationships with family and friends. I because so much more positive and I’ll carry that forever! Thank you so much Johnny!”
Samantha Dirks
Represented Belize in Track and Field
2017 London World Championships
2020 Tokyo Olympics
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I have been working with John for a number of years now and he has helped me through a range of challenges from golf to studies, to my overall life. For example, I have applied the Boomerang Effect to not only take my golf to the division 1 American college system but also in my studies through the HSC and college, maintaining a 4.0 GPA. I am grateful for the place’s life has taken me and it could not have been possible without John’s professional assistance. His knowledge and dedication to me has been incredible and consistent from day one to present. Every time after I talk to John, I am clear on “my way” that John and I have developed, and I feel ready to take on any challenge that I may face. I am beyond thankful for the time and effort John has put into me, always leaving his door (phone) open for me, even when he has his own life to live. I highly recommend John not only as a sports mindset coach but also as a friend.”
Hamish Murray
Australian Golfer
Nebraska Men’s Golf Team
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Being able to control your focus is crucial to handling pressure situations and John was extremely helpful in improving my mind control.”
Craig Fitzgibbon
Australian Former Professional Rugby League Footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I believe having a positive and confident mindset everyday directly contributes to success.”
George Blackwood
Australian Socceroos
U20s Former Team Captain
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Biggest thing I felt I learnt was that in any situation even if it may have been a negative one, there is always. apositive way to spin it.””
Sam Lane
Rugby Union Footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John’s strategies have had an awesome effect on my game and in my life. He taught me how to think positively about any situation bad or good on and off the field.”
Shaun Kenny-Dowall
International Rugby League Footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Thanks to John I was able to come back from 2 consecutive season ending surgeries/injuries with a strong, limitless and resilient mindset. After we worked together I won first grade best and fairest and we won the premiership in 2018.”
Tyson Davis
Australian U20s Rugby Union
Best & Fairest Warringah Rats 2018
Premiership 2018
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“The information John supplies you with in his sessions and his enthusiasm triggers something in you that everyone is capable of. He makes you realise how GREAT you can be.”
Shane Shackleton
Professional Rugby League Footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I had the pleasure to work with John, he gave me a great sense of empowerment and successfully guided me to live a life of inner peace, happiness and appreciation!”
Nick Rizzo
Australian Former Footballer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John Novak is a principled man that has the unique talent to connect with athletes of any level. His ability to empower his clients to fulfill their full potential by developing emotional and mental capabilities sets him apart from his peers. If I was coaching professionally in Australia, John would be the first person I would call to be on my staff.”
Damien Cotter
Australian Basketball Coach
Assistant Coach for the Chicago Bulls of the NBA
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“My sessions so far have taught me how to center myself in high pressure situations, and draw all my focus on my chosen target. By implementing the strategies I have learnt I aim to nail the consistency of my pre-shot routine and present myself with a positive mind frame with each shot. Overall it has given me a different perspective on the way I view and approach the game of golf that gives myself the best chance of success.”
Monica Johnson
Australian Elite Golfer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I have had the pleasure of working with John for 17 years, in which he has helped me and help my students tap into their inner strength and true potential. Like any great communicator his words and ideas are simple yet extremely powerful. He goes beyond being motivational, giving his clients real skills to help them meet the many challenges both in professional and amateur golf. The card system he has developed, like John, are inspirational, effective and beautifully put together, a must for any avid student of the game.”
John Serhan
NSW Golf Team Coach
2x NSW Coach of the Year
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“To me, John is a master of mental organisation and structure. I went to him with everything I knew about mindset and being, and he showed me how to use it for maximum effcet. He has not only been a pleasure to work with, but inspirational as well.”
Peter Boukouvalas
Australian Archer
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I shot my first bogey free round as my focus and self belief was the best I’ve experienced on the course, I can’t thank John enough for beginning my journey to an ongoing positive mindset.”
Brij Ingrey
Elite Jack Newton Junior Golf Player
North Ryde Amateur Cup Champion 2023
Singleton Junior Championship 2020
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I’ve known John for many years now and his strategies have helped broaden my mental side. Golf is a game of mentality and the Boomerang Effect has made me more aware of being in the now and showing me how limitless I am.”
Stephanie Kyriacou
Professional Golf Player
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I’m forever grateful to you for all the wisdom and guidance you’ve given me in the 8 years we’ve worked together. I owe today’s result (Olympic Bronze 10m Platform in Tokyo) to you and I’m so appreciative for what you’ve done for me not only as an athlete but also as a person. Thank you!”
Melissa Wu
10M Platform Bronze
Tokyo Olympic Games
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Wow did I feel amazing in that ring!!! But not only in the ring, in the change rooms so relaxed and nailed when to turn everything on and the right time!!! Can’t thank you enough for all the work you’ve done with me!! Each fight I know I’m growing and learning more and more!! Whole new level was felt!!”
Enja Ryan
WBC Female Welterweight
Australasian Champion
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I love working with you Johnny”
Marcelo Montoya
New Zealand Warriors
Powerhouse Dynamo
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Since working with John, I have put his strategies into not only my play but into life in general. Champion Mindset 24/7! On the golf course he has helped me improve my focus, accept adversity and be the best I can be.”
Ella Scaysbrook
Australian Golfer
Queensland Stroke Play Championship
Port Phillip Amateur Winner 2025
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Since working with John (8 years ago) he taught me the power of a positive mindset 24/7, not only in my sport but everything I do in life.”
Jerry Markoja
Australian Wheelchair Tennis Player
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Before I met John, I was unable to handle my emotions or understand what emotions were hindering my golf. Since I have seen John, and using the techniques he’s provided, he got me feeling a lot calmer on the course, and that’s translated into much better golf.”
Sid Nadimpalli
Winner of Adidas Golf Junior 6s Tour – Cranbourne
Winner of Latrobe Open – Amateur
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“John and The Boomerang Effect has changed my view, perception and mindset both within my sport and my personal life. It has elevated and transformed my personal journey and highlighted the importance of our mentality in everyday life and in our professions. Playing internationally and at the top level requires discipline, resilience, sacrifice, drive and strength but it also invites setbacks, redirection, challenges and mental blocks at times. Johnny has taught me to embrace these trials and welcome them because this is where you can grow, strengthen, learn, mature and ultimately propel back into our strongest and best self on the sporting stage and in life.”
Remy Siemsen
Australian Matildas Striker
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Since meeting Johnny and working with him, he has focused and grown my appreciation for process and intention. His techniques and ideas have not only helped me massively in my professional football journey but as a person as well. Grateful to have met him and for his help and guidance over the years.”
Max Burgess
Newcastle Jets A-League
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“Johnny has an incredible wealth of knowledge into the minds of athletes at the highest level. During our time he showed me how relentless positivity is a skill and can benefit any situation no matter how heavy it may seem. The energy he brings to a room is second to none”
James Donachie
Australian Soccer Player
Central Coast Mariners in the A-League
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“My positive experience with Johnny has allowed me to develop a strong and focused mindset on and off the pitch. Minimising negativity, clean slating and focusing on making the most of the present moment has enabled me to become my best self. Thank you, Johnny!”
Monica Soria
Under 20’s NPLW Team at Brunswick Juventus
Melbourne, Australia
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I have had the pleasure of working with John Novak both personally and professionally with some of my players during the past 3 years. John’s simple steps to change your thoughts are very powerful and go beyond any expectations you may have.
John’s professionalism and passion to help is a special quality you don’t find very often in life. After spending time with John I feel I have known him all my life and I class him as a good friend.
If you want to change who you are, you need only spend time with John and you will have positive changes in your life. I cannot recommend John highly enough.”
Jason Laws
Australian Elite Golf Coach
Testimonial for Sports Mindset Coaching by John Novak
“I reached a point where I wasn’t even sure if I could continue playing high-performance cricket—I felt like I was losing my identity. Meeting Johnny changed everything. Now, I wake up every morning driven and focused, ready to give my best. When I step out to face bowlers, I feel fully prepared and 100% up for the challenge. “
Olivia Porter
Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL)
Australian A-Cricket Team