Demystifying Mental Toughness 277 How To Help An Extra Competitive Footballer
In episode #277 David and Gerard Fitzgerald discussed how to help shift the focus of an extra competitive footballer or athlete, using the example of a boy named Joe who hates losing. Key points included the importance of harnessing anger positively, as seen with Wayne Rooney's iconic goal in 2005 for Manchester United versus Newcastle United. They also share the need to normalise emotional responses like anger where footballers may kick out, tackle over aggressively, shout at team-mates or display poor body language. Parents and coaches are advised to avoid adding to the child's stress and activating their sympathetic nervous system anymore by shouting and yelling at them, instead helping them regulate emotions.
Key Learning Points:
· Develop standardised behaviour routines for young footballers, focusing on the attributes of their favourite players (e.g., work rate, commitment, shooting of Ronaldo).
· Ask the athlete questions to understand their perspective on what behaviours (work rate, commitment) mean to them as often a coach or parents’ interpretation can be very different.
· Accept and seek to understand individual perspectives, traits and subsequent behaviours without being overly judgemental.
· Focus on solutions to help young footballers and athletes manage their emotions effectively.
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Podcast Episodes Related To The Youth Sport Experience
Ep082: David Charlton – Supporting Children in Sport with Positive Feedback
Ep122: Prof Camilla Knight – Helping Your Children Get The Most From Their Sporting Experiences
Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches
Youth Sports Psychology Library
Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents
Helpful Resources For Young Football and Soccer Players, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches
Frequently Asked Questions - Goalkeeping Psychology
Frequently Asked Questions - Football Psychology
Ep276: How To Help A Footballer Who Focuses Too Much On Other People
Ep049: James Maurice – How Does Sport Psychology in Elite Football Academies Help