Importance of Sport Psychology
Coaches and athletes are well aware of the impact psychological factors have on performance, however, its importance is only starting to come to light in many sports (1). Just like physical side of training, the psychological aspects also need to be systematically trained. Sport psychology uses psychological strategies and skills to produce optimal performance and well-being in athletes. Not only can these strategies help athletes to focus or handle pressure and set backs, but it also enables them to create a vision for themselves and their team and work better collectively (2).
The importance of sport psychology is highlighted in sports such as field hockey and other team sports, where athletes must be focused and make effective decisions in the moment (3). There is further pressure added at the elite level where athletes need to cope with the stress of performing at their best all the time, and dealing with set backs (3).
High Performance Field Hockey 