The following post is an excerpt from Frank’s newest book, The Soft Science of Tennis. Click Here to Order through Amazon
Managing Fear and Risk
Most coaches hope that their athlete’s strokes and athleticism have authority and command over their performance, but I believe it’s their emotional aptitude that actually runs the show.
When working with players who have issues with fear and risk, begin by asking yourself the following six questions to identify the athlete’s level of emotional awareness.
- What is their cognitive design? Do they understand their brain preferences?
- How do they view the feared situation?
- Do they appreciate the opportunity to be able to compete?
- Are there past biases or experiences they need to let go of?
- Will they accept a strategic, proactive plan to attack their issues?
- Are they willing to train correctly for the mission at hand?
