054 The Importance of Effective Communication in Sports

Demystifying Mental Toughness

An important element of mental toughness that is often not thought about is our ability to communicate effectively, both on a 1-2-1 basis and in groups. In some individual sports, this skill is arguably not as important as it is in team sports or in the workplace. However, you will still be required to assert yourself with your coach or team on occasions so it shouldn’t be forgotten about. In team settings, it is an essential skill that can be developed and is critical if you are to fulfill your potential. Today Jamie Forrester, Paul McGee, and Mark Bennett highlight the need to have interpersonal confidence where different social situations that we find ourselves in are explored.

Key Learning Points:

• Asserting yourself with teammates and coaches in professional football is vital.
• If you are being criticised by someone consider this question – “Would I take criticism from someone I wouldn’t take advice from?”
• As a coach is the quality of your communication aligned to what individuals and the team are trying to achieve.
• We expect people to reflect and learn from experiences but we don’t teach them how to.
• Parents should consider what is success for themselves and for their children.

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To Listen to the Full Podcast Episodes

Podcast Ep041: Paul McGee - How to Develop Interpersonal Confidence

Podcast Ep042: Mark Bennett MBE – Characteristics of High Performance Athletes

Podcast Ep043: Jamie Forrester – Thriving in Professional Football

Other Resources to Help You

5 Reasons team captains should work with a Sports Psychologist

Coaches – Are you and your team pulling together during tough times?

3 Tips to deal with bullying in sport

Communicating with children in sport