One of the fastest-growing and most interesting of careers is that of sports psychologist. These individuals utilize the methods and techniques of psychology and related fields to maximize performance and well-being. Essentially, they aid the athlete to gain a competitive edge over rivals.
Typical are the cases from the files of Henry R. Reiter, a New York sports psychologist with success in working with a variety of athletes in tennis, golf, boxing, swimming, and professional baseball.
One of his clients was a 14-year-old, semi successful, female tennis player. Although intelligent, she unfortunately had a terrible temper and following a mistake would throw a tantrum. Her great potential was not being realized-frequently she came close but never won a major tournament. A program was set up to work with her and her parents over a six-month period. It included some hypnosis and self-hypnosis, relaxation therapy, and the rule that the parents did not attend tournaments. The therapy was designed to help lower the player's tension level and help her gain better control over her emotions. One technique dictated that following a mistake, she would silently count-3, 2, 1-and then yell, "Next point!" She began to win and went on to become a successful collegiate tennis player at a California college.
A professional golfer on the pro-tour had difficulty with concentration. At this point in his career, he was earning enough to cover his expenses. However, with some training on concentration, he became a more successful golfer, in both skill and income. Dr. Reiter explained that "this was an easy case; sports psychologists have had excellent results assisting in improving athletes' concentration."
A professional baseball pitcher became a client of Dr. Reiter, who noted, "He had no self-confidence-I mean zero-and he was slightly paranoid." During a period of five months, meeting twice a week, the use of hypnotherapy and hypnosis helped the pitcher develop confidence. He asked to be traded to begin a new in a different environment. He was traded, and he has become very successful.
Most sports psychologists entering the profession today have a master's, and usually a doctoral, degree. In the past, people with backgrounds in athletic training, exercise physiology, and physical education might have functioned as sports counselors. However, the advent of malpractice lawsuits has quickly changed this situation. Those lacking appropriate degree work in psychology and counseling will be unable to obtain necessary malpractice insurance.
The doctoral degree requires both intelligence and persistence. When in a college program, take additional courses in the social or behavioral sciences with a major in psychology, and take sports studies or physical education courses when possible. While some universities have specific doctoral programs in sports psychology, most students wishing to enter this profession attend doctoral programs in clinical psychology. Within such programs, they apply the psychological concepts and theories to sports and athletics and, most importantly, undertake their training in clinic work with sports clients, utilizing psychological applications in their work. The latter is done under supervision. The doctoral dissertation work focuses upon sports psychology. Several master's level programs exist for students not wishing to pursue doctoral studies.
Sports psychologists operate in a number of settings-as consultants to teams, as college professors, and as private practitioners maintaining an office practice. It is not unusual to find many serving on a college faculty and on a part-time basis working with teams or individuals. Salaries for these individuals range from$50,000 to $100,000 or more-the pace often runs hectic, but most enjoy the combination of academic (college) and practical (working with clients).
Team psychologists most often gain employment with a professional team on a contract basis. They work on specific goals with the team, collectively and individually, and are available if needed in a time of crisis. They may handle such individual problems as substance addiction or loss of confidence as well as team difficulties including surviving a losing streak and coping with an irrationality like an opponent with a "jinx" over them.
It's an enjoyable life style that also can be financially rewarding. Dr. Reiter commented that "one of the joys of this job is to see one of my clients reach their potential and enjoy doing it. Another reason I like my job is I really enjoy the variety of people with whom I work."
Boh Rotella of the University of Virginia succinctly summarized the dominant feelings toward his field: "Many athletes and coaches find a fuller understanding of the role of the mind and emotions most helpful in enhancing performance."
This appreciation of the value of this young field has come because many athletes benefit from the professions methods. Julie K. Anthony formerly served on the staff of the Philadelphia Flyers hockey team. She taught relaxation exercises to some of the players: "The player sits in a relaxed position and progressively tenses and relaxes all the major muscles in the body." The players practice this twice a day for 15 minutes; eventually they get to the point where, with a few deep breaths, they can tense and relax to finally relax the entire body. Anthony explained its value: "In the game, if the score is close and he is waiting to go in, an athlete can use this technique to prevent getting too tight,"
Another technique of the profession-hypnosis-has aided several athletes. Bill Buckner, a former first baseman who was a fine hitter with several major league baseball clubs, hit a serious batting slump at one point during his career. Buckner stated, "When things are going wrong, sometimes it's hard to analyze it. Under hypnosis, I was better able to talk about my batting motion and what I was doing wrong. Then, when I was still hypnotized, Dr. Misel reminded me of the things I should be working on."Buckner experienced excellent success following his counseling.
Most recently, the technique of "imagery or fantasy" has received a lot of attention. Recent research has shown that once athletes advance beyond the beginner stage, mental rehearsal, combined with the physical practice as opposed to practice alone, is more effective in preparing for an event. Steve Hebb, as a member of the U.S. Alpine Ski Team, used to sit and mentally visualize himself making his run: "I see myself making a perfect turn in the toughest part of the course." Dr. Richard M. Swinn of Colorado State University said that "this technique can be beneficial in ridding the athlete of negative [thinking patterns]."
Sports psychology is booming as amateur and professional athletes begin to realize its value and begin to take advantage of these modern techniques. In addition, weekend athletes wanting to improve their golf game or jump shot are availing themselves of these strategies. While few full-time positions have developed, opportunities seem promising. The success in conditioning the mind of athletes promises continued growth of the sports psychology profession.
