H.Walshe Sport Psychology

I have worked as a Sport and Performance Psychologist at a professional football club for a long period of time. I have come across many different areas where I have found that I can help individual and team performance. Below are a few of the most common: 

1. Psychological Skills Training: Performance psychologists work with football players to develop and enhance mental skills such as concentration, focus, goal-setting, visualization, and self-talk. These skills contribute to improved performance on the field.
2. Dealing with Pressure: Football is a high-pressure environment. Performance psychologists help players cope with stress, anxiety, and pressure by teaching them effective mental strategies.
3. Confidence Building (Biggest Buzzword in Football) : Confidence is essential for peak performance. Performance psychologists help football players build and maintain confidence by addressing doubts, negative thinking patterns, and helping players recognize and build on strengths.
4. Teamship and Team Dynamics: Managing team dynamics is crucial in football. Performance psychologists may work with teams to improve cohesion and create a positive and supportive environment.
5. Resilience: Setbacks are common in sports. Performance psychologists help players cope with the emotional challenges associated with them. This can also be known as building mental toughness.
6. Enhancing Focus: Avoiding distraction and staying focused is one of the toughest areas in football. Both on and off the pitch there are multiple triggers that impair a players focus. Performance Psychologists work with athletes to create mechanisms that ensure they maintain focus. 
7. Pre-game Routines: Establishing effective pre-game routines and rituals can contribute to a player’s mental readiness. Performance psychologists help athletes develop personalized routines that suit their needs and preferences.
8. Communication with Coaches and MDT: Performance psychologists often collaborate with coaches and other staff to ensure a holistic approach to player development. They may provide assessments and insights into the mental aspects of individual players and the team as a whole.

In summary, a performance psychologist in football works to optimize the mental and emotional well-being of players on and off the pitch. Supporting them to perform to the best of their abilities and help them cope with setbacks. 

See professional footballers’ experiences of working with me in the testimonials section.