Mental performance strategies as determinants of flow, performance satisfaction and performance among soccer players

Abstract

Background: This longitudinal study aimed at examining whether athletes’ psychological skills in applying mental strategies predicted satisfaction with performance , performance and flow at short- and long-term follow-ups. Methods: Data from 96 soccer players (100% men, aged 16 -27 ) were collected three times; before the season (T1; baseline), in mid-season (T2; two-month follow-up), and after the soccer season (T3; seven-month follow-up). Athletes were recruited from 2nd and 4th league football clubs. Participants filled in questionnaires, measuring: mental strategies (Test of Performance Strategies), satisfaction with performance, and flow. Performance was measured with running and dribbling drill tests. Findings : High levels of mental strategies, including: emotional control, activation, relaxation, distractibility self-talk and automaticity ( all assessed at T1) explained players’ report of their satisfaction with performance , flow, and objectively measured performance (T3). Discussion: The study provides an insight into the beneficial effects of mental strategies such as relaxation, self-talk, and activation in the development of satisfaction with performance, performance and flow.