2022-2023 Graduate Catalog

EDUA 5534 The Psychology of Sport

THE PSYCHOLOGY OF SPORT

Practice, practice, practice. Every coach knows that athletes need to practice the physical techniques unique to their sport and their position on the team. But is that all they need to practice? Research shows that mental skills are just as crucial to becoming a successful athlete. But how do you instill healthy mental techniques in your student athletes to help them both on and off the field?

In this course, you will learn why mental skills are so essential for athletic performance and how to teach vital mental techniques alongside physical techniques. You’ll develop strategies for motivating athletes to succeed and make a total commitment to their sport, using self-talk, imagery, and visualization, and helping students manage their emotions during competition. Focusing on athletes’ mental skills will increase their performance during practice and competition.

Using the knowledge and techniques from this course, you will be able to increase your athletes’ mental and physical skills and give them tools they can use to succeed in all areas of life.

Credits

3