Psychological Competencies and 100 Meter Runner Student Athletes’ Performance

This research aims to analyze the suitability of the theoretical model of the psychological competencies model b of the 100-meter runner student athletes with the empirical model. This study uses a quantitative approach. Total 65 (50 men and 15 women) 100-meter runner student athletes who participated in the national athletic championships. Instruments uses the Psychological Competency Scale and time records documentation data on the results of national championships. Data analyzed using partial least square (PLS). The results of the inner model test show a Q-square value of 0.919 (> 0.00). It means that there was suitability of the theoretical model of psychological competency of 100-meter runner student athletes’ with the empirical model. The R-square value of performance is 0.881. It means that the 100-meter runner student athletes’ performance were influenced by psychological competencies by 88,1%. These findings have implications for the selection and coaching of 100-meter runner student athletes. Further research needs to design mental skills training comprehensively based on psychological competencies.

Mental Skills

This chapter considers issues in optimizing the impact and efficacy of mental skills training (MST). Balancing MST focus between performance, well-being, and character development is essential and requires data-driven case conceptualization. Effective professional judgment and decision-making underpins development of effective MST, enabling consideration of aspects such as timing, sequencing, and periodization, which determine the optimum “blend” of intervention techniques and delivery. Three interacting factors underpin effective application of MST. Relevant performer characteristics (e.g., gender, age, maturity) and special circumstances (injury, retirement) interact with practitioner characteristics such as level of experience, specific training, and preference/expertise with certain skills. Interactions are also influenced by cultural/contextual factors, from normative expectations of service delivery to contractual conditions and geographical locations (online/remote). The actual benefit of mental skills can only be realized when the provider both comprehends how to plan and deliver effectively and can navigate influential factors appropriately.

Exploring the Perceived Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Social Distancing Measures on Athlete Wellbeing: A Qualitative Study Utilising Photo-Elicitation

Countries all over the globe have implemented mandatory social distancing measures in an attempt to suppress and control the spread of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This enforced period of isolation, disruption to normal training routines and competition cancellation, could be having an adverse effect on the mental health and wellbeing of athletes. This study sought to explore the perceived impact of the COVID-19 social distancing measures on athlete wellbeing. Fourteen elite athletes who were unable to train or compete due to government imposed lockdown measures were recruited to participate in this qualitative study. Utilising the photo elicitation method, participants were asked to take a series of photographs that represented their experiences as athletes living in lockdown. These photographs were used to guide discussions in follow up unstructured interviews. Reflexive inductive thematic analysis identified three main themes that captured athletes’ experience of social distancing measures and the implications for their wellbeing: (1) threats to wellbeing; (2) adapting routines and maintaining motivation; and (3) reflecting on participation in competitive elite sport. The initial sudden loss of sport in the athlete’s lives posed a threat to their wellbeing, but over the duration of the lockdown period the athletes developed numerous strategies to protect their wellbeing. Furthermore, their time away from sport encouraged them to reflect on their athletic identity and to make life changes that would protect their wellbeing during the rest of the lockdown period and when they returned to sport. A number of immediate practical recommendations are offered for athlete support personnel working with athletes during the crisis, these include developing self-care strategies and social networks, adapting routines, setting new goals and encouraging the pursuit of dual-careers. Future research is encouraged to investigate how practitioners can deliver effective psychological support through tele-consulting, and to consider whether their support is best focused on therapeutic counselling or mental skills training during the pandemic.