THE BENEFITS OF MENTAL PREPARATION IN FOOTBALL
In sports, mental preparation has reached new heights and is now seen as equally important as physical training. For athletes, it has become a key factor in improving performance and managing the pressure of competition. These skills can be used throughout different stages of an athlete’s career to handle both the highs and lows more effectively.
Integrated seamlessly into the unique PSG methodology, our mental preparation program is central in our approach to developing youth players in overcoming adversity.
The PSG Academy Pro goes beyond tactical training sessions and academics. Our commitment to excellence includes building mental fortitude and strength of character to prepare them for all types of challenges on and off the field.
Expert Leadership
EMMANUEL HEUSSNER
PSG Academy Pro Mental & Resilience Coach, brings his professional tennis career and 15 years of experience as a mental coach for high-level sports to the PSG Academy Pro Residency. His expertise ensures players receive world-class guidance in mental preparation.
WHY IS MENTAL
PREPARATION ESSENTIAL?
Mental preparation is crucial for optimizing performance and managing stress during preparation, training and competitions. It helps athletes:
- Enhance team dynamics and leadership
- Maintain focus and improve concentration
- Boost self-confidence and self-esteem
- Overcome the fear of failure
- Develop a winning mindset
- Manage emotions
- Overcome mistakes
Football is a demanding sport, both physically and psychologically. Proper mental preparation can be the deciding factor between victory and defeat. By focusing on mental resilience, athletes can:
- Stay calm under pressure
- Adapt to different game situations
- Be resilient
- Foster team cohesion and leadership
- Maintain positivity and momentum, especially during moments of doubt and inevitable setbacks
Performance is deeply influenced by a player’s mental and emotional state.
A player’s confidence, focus, and emotional control directly impact their individual performance and, by extension, the overall level and success of the team.
HOW DOES
THE PROGRAM WORK?
The PSG Academy Pro mental development program is structured into three main components:
1
- Building Awareness
Proving that mental development is as vital a physical training.
Recognizing the direct impact of mental strength on performance.
2
- Workshops and Classroom Sessions
Discover techniques to address common mental challenges.
Learn and cultivate the PSG mindset (values, principles of success, rules).
3
- On-Field Application
Collaborate with coaches to engage in practical exercises to apply these strategies effectively.
Integrate mental preparation techniques into training sessions.
Use specific drills to reinforce learned concepts in real-game scenarios.
Additionally, one-on-one meetings allow players to assess their mental performance, address challenges, and chart a personalized path for improvement.
Individual coaching sessions are available to our athletes, providing personalized guidance and coaching tailored to each young player’s unique needs (upon request).
PSG Academy coaches also undergo continuous training in mental preparation to ensure a cohesive approach.
OUR
APPROACH
At PSG Academy Pro, we focus on eliminating negative influences like fear, doubt, and external pressure, while also balancing the athlete and the individual. By strengthening both their competitive edge and inner harmony, we help players thrive on and off the field.
TECHNIQUES AND STRATEGIES
TAUGHT AT THE PSG ACADEMY PRO
Throughout the season, players receive consistent support and tools to achieve both their personal and team goals. Key techniques include:
- Mental imagery
- Breathing management
- Goal setting
- Anchoring
- Meditation and mindfulness
- Focus and concentration tools
- Relaxation techniques
- Routines
PROGRAM
TOPICS
Our mental development program focuses on real-world challenges players may
encounter during their football journey.
- Developing a Champion Mindset
Understanding mental strength and its role in achieving success.
1
- Thinking Like a Champion:
Creating positive and productive thought patterns inspired by elite athletes.
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3
- Cultivating the “PSG Mindset”:
Embracing the 20 values of excellence as a foundation for success.
4
- Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem
Becoming confident, courageous, and self-assured.
- Building High-Performing Teams:
Fostering cohesion and unity within the group.
5
- Managing Frustration and Anger:
Learning to channel “toxic” emotions constructively.
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7
- Handling Fear and Stress:
Using relaxation and breathing techniques to stay composed.
8
- Harnessing the Power of Routines:
Designing routines to ensure mental readiness.
- Pre-Match Mental Preparation:
Establishing a focused plan before competitions.
9
- Score Management:
Navigating various match scenarios mentally.
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11
- Effective Focus:
Maintaining concentration and managing distractions.
12
- Building Mental Endurance:
Sustaining focus over extended periods.
- Creating Effective Habits:
Developing consistent actions for long-term success.
13
- Performing in the “Flow”:
Achieving peak performance with optimal intensity and energy.
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15
- Managing Thoughts:
Controlling internal dialogue to maintain clarity.
16
- Setting SMART Goals:
Establishing specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound objectives.
- Uncovering Motivation Secrets:
Stimulating intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.
17
- Transforming Doubts and Failures:
Embracing resilience and viewing setbacks as opportunities.
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- Staying Resilient During Injury:
Maintaining mental strength during recovery periods.