How to Use Pregame “Nerves” to your Advantage Many athletes have misconceptions about the effects of pregame “nerves” before competition sport. *Misconception 1: Elite athletes are NEVER nervous. *Misconception 2: It’s the total lack of nerves that cause elite athletes to be successful. *Misconception 3: Elite athletes are born with the capacity to remain 100
How to Stay Relaxed before a Competition “I feel like I’m going to be sick to my stomach.” Have you ever had this feeling prior to a competition? Have you ever been so anxious that you feel physically sick in the locker room before a game or competition? For some athletes, this feeling repeats itself
How to Develop A Pregame Routine Are you anxious prior to competitions? Do you feel unsure before a game and fearful that you might mess up? Prior to a competition, are your thoughts scattered and your mind filled with distractions? Do you find it difficult to mentally prepare for a competition and get into the
Overcoming Pressure to Preform in Games Have you ever missed a crucial serve? Like one of the “deadly sins” of serving? A first point, a game point, after a time-out, after a teammate misses their serve? Serving under pressure, especially in a position like game point, can be extremely difficult for volleyball players. You might
How to Build Mental Toughness in Volleyball: “Set Me Again” Do you persevere in the face of adversity? Are you able to remain strong minded after a mistake? While on the court, do you push through whatever obstacles you meet? I was the type of player who wanted the ball, even after I made a
Do You Get Pregame Jitters? Are you scared when you step on the court? Do you fear making a mistake? Or being judged by others? Or being embarrassed if you mess up? I had a teammate one year in college that got so nervous and anxious right before a game that she would throw up…