Sports competitions now occupy almost the entire year, making it nearly impossible to take stock of a sports season. Among the many topics that could be discussed to define successes or failures, good or bad seasons, one key aspect is the psychological component of sport—particularly the emotions it stirs in its main actors: the athletes, the coaches (very few of whom are women at the top level), and the support staff.
If we look at what the media are presenting these days, we see the use of words and thoughts that focus almost exclusively on emotions. Inter players are still recovering from the disappointment of the Champions League; at Juventus, there’s a sense of renewed energy; Sinner’s self-control is admired; in tennis, some female players are slipping down the rankings because they no longer feel like making the necessary sacrifices; Antonio Conte led Napoli to win the championship more thanks to his leadership than his tactical ideas; and Sofia Goggia and Federica Brignone are two women who pour their passion into their athletic careers.
The existential dimension dominates the sporting careers of athletes, highlighting the importance of always taking care of oneself, regardless of whether the results are good or bad. The examples mentioned involve top performers who, in theory, should be supported by the best professionals—and yet even at that level, this essential need is often not adequately met.
However, the more serious issue does not concern these top athletes, who can choose whichever professionals they want. The real concern lies with other athletes—young adolescents or those in sports that struggle to have a qualified support team. These individuals face the same psychological challenges but often have to deal with them alone or in environments that are not sensitive to these matters.
Even worse, they may fall prey to unqualified mental coaches or to psychologists who, although trained, do not understand the world of sports and therefore provide inadequate support.
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