049 How Does Sport Psychology In Elite Football Academies Help

This episode is one that may interest, young footballers, football coaches, parents of talented footballers, and sports psychologists.  Where James Maurice, HCPC Chartered Sport and Exercise Psychologist, and a member of the Sport Psychology team at Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club joins me to discuss typical challenges that young academy footballers have at different ages and how best to support them.  We also provide guidance to upskill coaches and parents to ensure that the youngsters' experience in football academies is a positive one. Key Learning Points: As football academies support young footballers from 8 years old up to their early 20’s a variety of challenges occur, at different points in time. Some of the challenges a sport psychologist may support a player include; handling performance pressures, facing local rivals, selection or contractual issues, overcoming injuries, managing expectations of player, parent and coaches, physical challenges and many more. Fun, engaging sessions with children are the key to learning and reinforcing a positive perception of the field of sports psychology. Helping players experience difficulties and challenges creatively rather than simply talking is helpful. From the age of 16-18 years can be particularly difficult as decisions on their future are being made, they have exams pressures too and are getting to an age where they can be distracted and fail to make the necessary sacrifices.  Parents can use process goals as a way of supporting their children to develop their skills and to distract them from getting to caught up in the emotion of their child’s performances.   Connect with James Maurice Twitter Email: [email protected] Connect with David Charlton Download THE FOCUSED ATHLETE CHECKLIST Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn Podcasts to Help You Podcast Ep01: Peter Ramage – Developing a Premier League Mindset Podcast Ep08: Brendan Pearson – Academy Football, Professional Football, Injuries and Early Retirement Podcast Ep27: Natalie Henderson - How to Develop Mental Toughness with Young Footballers Podcast Ep41: Paul McGee - How to Develop Interpersonal Confidence Podcast Ep43: Jamie Forrester – Thriving in Professional Football Other Resources to Help You Sports Psychology for Football or Soccer Sports Psychology for Goalkeepers Football and Soccer Psychology Blogs