The Sport Psych Show #293 Geir Jordet - Lessons from the Psychology of the Penalty Shootout
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Aug 5, 2024 Geir Jordet, a world-leading expert and Professor of Sport Psychology at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, shares insights from his extensive work with top football clubs. He discusses the psychology behind penalty shootouts and the mental pressures athletes face, emphasizing strategies like individual routines and gaze control to combat anxiety. Geir also highlights the evolution of player decision-making under stress, the importance of team support, and how psychological preparation can determine success or failure in these high-stakes moments.
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Geir Jordet's Penalty Research Origin
- Geir Jordet's interest in penalty kicks started after he publicly claimed Beckham choked under pressure in Euro 2004 and was challenged by Henning Berg on live radio.
- This embarrassingly motivated him to research penalties, leading to collaborations and extensive data on shootouts.
Anxiety's Paralyzing Effects
- Anxiety is the universal emotion during penalty shootouts, leading to behaviors like avoiding goalkeeper gaze or rushing shots.
- Players often either speed up to finish quickly or overthink and slow down excessively, both risking choking.
Control Pressure Through Routines
- Develop and practice a personal penalty routine to gain control over anxiety during kicks.
- Focus on controlling what you can, such as breathing, timing, and mental preparation, rather than uncontrollable factors.