Sports psychology gaining popularity at MCC
New program on campus geared towards mental dominanceIn an age where there are so many great athletes and competition in sports, every athlete is looking to gain an edge in their game. Sports psychology is a new class that is being offered here at MCC aimed at giving athletes that edge. The practice of sports psychology is defined as studying the effects of psychological factors on behaviors that happen in sports. It is also defined as the developing of mental dominance over your challenges and situations in not just sports, but life as well. Sports psychologists consult with individual athletes and coaches of all ages ranging from youth sports all the way to the professional ranks.
Since the 1980’s, psychology has become more involved in athletics as an area of study. The connection of psychology to athletics is very great. The psychology that is applied to sports focus both on individuals, as well as the team. The program here at MCC, is taught by Tinshin Donkersley, who said “Our program started out small, but has blossomed into two full classes with a waiting list.”
Sports psychology is increasingly involved with coaches, athletes, and even trainers to enhance athletic performances by improving physical and mental training. One example of a technique sports psychologists use to help athletes with performance, is improving visual motor skills, such as mentally practicing the movements (i.e. Shadow boxing). Another example would be the psychologist helping the athlete improve anxiety reduction skills such as relaxation training and thought stopping.
“Sports are just about 60-80% physical but the player with the most mental strength will be victorious,” says Donkersley.
Sports psychologists also try to work on an individual’s motivation and develop that to a greater level to get an athlete’s best performance. In addition to this, sports psychologists are important in rehabbing athletes from physical injuries and psychological trauma.
An example of this rehabilitation came when NFL quarterback Carson Palmer suffered a horrific knee injury last season. Sports psychologists helped Palmer overcoming his fears in taking hits this season.
Sports psychologists also work with the team on how to turn a group of individual athletes into a team that bonds together.
A psychology degree is required to be a sports psychologist. Sports psychologists have to have knowledge of group dynamics, and social perceptions to turn a group of individuals into a championship-caliber team, that makes use of every individual’s strengths.
Sports psychologists don’t just study athletes, other sports related things they cover consist of is fan’s behavior, factors influencing regular exercise program for people, and developing mental dominance.
Students wishing to take sports psychology (PSY 215) are urged to sign up for spring semester as soon as possible as spots are filling fast.
Volume
44, Issue 3. Today is
Tinshin Donkersley heads the Sports Psychology program at Mesa Community College.