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Self-confidence helps players and coaches feel good, be innovative, and overcome set-backs

Coaches in particular need to create an environment that provides players with the opportunity to feel competent. In every squad there are players who are less proficient with their skills and need to be given the chance to do things that they are good at.

Confidence is highly related to realistic and achievable goals. This may be illustrated by using what is termed the 'performance highway':

The graph illustrates that there is an optimum level of challenge to provoke successful performance. Coaches must recognise that each player has a different 'highway' and that the more success a player experiences in games, the greater the level of self-confidence in future encounters.

As well as goal setting, confidence may be enhanced by:

  • Watching others perform skills successfully
  • Watch yourself (video) performing successfully
  • Coach encouragement and endorsement
  • Positive self-talk

Focus on the positive aspects of your weekly training programme - write them down
Self-confidence helps players and coaches feel good, be innovative, and overcome set-backs
  
TOP TIP
Show players video clips of successful performance i.e. a try or big tackle. Encourage players to imagine the successful performance prior to games to boost confidence
TOP TIP
Analyse your self-talk - you'll probably find it's negative i.e. "I feel weak today", and convert it to a positive statement i.e. "I feel strong, fit and confident in my own ability."