I work with the players on their mental preparation for games and dealing with their confidence, anxiety and any personal problems that may enter into their lives. Increasingly, professionals such as myself are utilised to work with soccer teams.This week we have been preparing player profiles which includes all their strengths and weaknesses. We will also set goals on a monthly and season basis so as we can keep the player improving and monitor his progress towards those targets. Different techniques are used to enhance their performance such as visualisation and imagery which encourages them to reflect on their greatest moments in football not their worst - it's all about "we are what we think".
This season we are encouraging the players to gain a better understanding of the mental aspects of preparation for sports. A very similar programme is planned for all our junior teams over coming months as well.
This week has been very interesting as with the arrival of several new faces. The dynamics of the squad has changed and I am pleased to report that we are psychologically a very strong unit. I expect that the players and staff the manager has brought in will ensure success for Fleetwood Town and we will go from strength to strength.
This has been a great week for getting the team to bond and the facilities have been superb. We are rubbing shoulders with Apoel Nicosia and now Sheffield Wednesday. I look forward to seeing you at forthcoming games . POPEY
