When the Opponent Becomes a Mental Distraction

It is quite common that athletes pay attention to whom they will face the next game. A lacrosse or ice-hockey game brings a slightly different mental approach depending on whether the game will be played at home or away field. There is an unspoken and sometimes spoken message that the home team “owns” the gymnasium, stadium, or rink where the game will be played. This sense of “ownership” is aimed at promoting a sense of …

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Focus Tips from Top Athletes – Mental Preparation

Athletes often share with me that they find themselves getting mentally ahead of their games, which cause not only additional stress, but also become a source of mental distraction. Whether athletes are losing or winning, it is very normal to be carried away with positive or negative thoughts. During the past two weeks, two major sport events took place: Wimbledon and The Open Championship that was played at Royal Birkdale Golf Club. On both occasions, …

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How To Help Players Deal with Frustration During Practice

A squash coach works with a player who gets easily frustrated when his practice session does not go well. The player loses his temper and becomes defiant. The coach dedicates a good portion of the practice session dealing with the player’s behavior resulting in a non-productive practice session. Q. Coach: Are there any techniques I can use to help my player focus on his game, enjoy his successes, and deal with his frustration in a …

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