Psychological support in football is key to understanding the environment and situation one finds themselves in. A footballer with a good psychological skills uses the hindrances to improve, thus psychology is much needed in sporting excellence in our football.

 

Nonofo Sekgoma and Phatsimo Mumcy Tsholofelo, who are University of Botswana undergraduates pursuing a bachelor’s degree in sports science (sport and exercise psychology) attached at Botswana Football Association, explained the objectives of the event, stating that these events will help our young stars to flourish by providing them with emotional support and helping them to take proactive measures for their mental health.

 

The duo added that psychological support will improve the players’ performance as it will help them identify obstacles that hold them back, such as taking control of their confidence, expressing themselves and playing freely, mentally prepared for training and matches, staying calm and composed when things do not go according to plan just to name a few.

 

“As a player, you have to be focused and attentive, understand tactics, coordinate and perform other functions. You also have to be in control of the emotional side. In sports, moments of anger, joy euphoria or frustration are mixed,” said Nonofo Sekgoma.

 

Phatsimo Motlhabani a coach of the Radisele Centre of Excellence boys’ football team, appreciated the importance of these training sessions, saying that the players have been severely affected by the long layoffs and they believe that it is an ideal time to start such programmes to achieve maximum athletic performance in their teams.

 

“It was a very momentous day for our competitors, the lessons will also help our students academically in the classrooms, not only on the sports field, it will help the athletes with lower mental health and well-being concerns,” said Kabelo Moloko. Mr. Moloko is a senior teacher at Radisele Junior Seconday School.