When a junior Squash player is preparing to take part in a major tournament, they will instantly crave gratification for success at the tournament.
Unfortunately, for all young athletes of any sport; this is not always that easy, as they will need to work hard to achieve their goals; however, along the way, there will be setbacks to overcome.
One of the most difficult aspects of coaching is the mentality of junior players.
For any Squash coach, they need to identify several fundamental factors in juniors, these include current and potential ability, physical ability, and of course, attitude.
Methods to get in the zone for junior Squash players
Once the Squash coach has evaluated the young player, there are a few things that a Squash coach must do get the mind of the player right in the coaching session:
Confidence
In order to reach an elite level, any junior Squash player must have talent, dedication, and a desire to continually improve their game. Whilst ability and strong work hard ethic are important, the overriding attribute to a player’s success is confidence.
Many Squash experts know watching a junior player who has all the squash playing ability, has done well because of hard work, but on the flip side, when the junior player is unable to win, it is due to a lack of confidence can thus he or she will give up a promising career.
When a Squash Coach encourages self-confidence, it is essential that a junior player practice this both mentally and physically – aligned with the thought of success in overriding the thought of failure.
Mediation
By meditating is a powerful tool and is built on incredible feelings of success; this approach can instantly create positive vibes, especially before a big match.
All the best professional players in the world have experienced feel pre-match nerves, but they have confidence, as a result of mediation before a game, which has helped in their ability to succeed and therefore does not let this become an overwhelming factor. Pressure situations do not come much greater, but as the coach, I was able to remind the players of the time they have spent working on their tactics and teamwork.
Thoughts
Creating positive feelings can boost the confidence heading back onto the court. Instilling belief and confidence that will override any thoughts of failure, is paramount to success.
Putting in hours of court time, unquestionably building up self-belief, and having the knowledge that you have done the hard yards in training will stand you in good stead for your match play. If you know, you have worked harder than your opponent has, you know you have given yourself the best opportunity to improve and ultimately, succeed.
Healthiest individual sport, good for the mind and soul
In conclusion, let us not forget Squash is one of the healthiest individual sports on the planet; hence, it is vitally important that you build ways to create self-confidence.
For any junior player, working the two sides with confidence can only bode them well to improve all sides of their squash. The ability to keep pushing and striving for success against the odds will separate an average player from an elite player.
