The FA is committed to all aspects of Football development and sport psychology plays a key role in supporting coaches, managers and players. This page devotes itself to sharing a selection of The FA’s resources surrounding Psychology and Football.

What is Psychology for Football?
  • Psychology is not new to football, the best coaches and managers have always had a keen understanding of human behaviour - think of Bill Shankly, Brian Clough, and Alex Ferguson. For the first time, however, it is possible to take advantage of football specific research and resources. This new work points towards the most effective approaches for player learning and psychological development.
  • Sport psychology is about improving the mental responses of players in order to enhance development and performance.
  • Demands on players are higher than ever. Fans, money, TV exposure etc have increased the pressure. Stress can create pressures at home and you cannot ignore what goes on in the players personal lives now, especially young players, because it can affect their play.' Dave Bassett
  • ‘I think that performance improvements are difficult to quantify but in terms of increased motivation or confidence levels then yes. If you take an assessment of body language for example…it is there for all to see…the general tenor and atmosphere within the group has vastly improved as a result of the psychology work we did last year.’ Academy Manager
  • Good psychology nearly always comes from creating the right environment around the player. This starts in the club with the coaches and support staff, but includes helping parents to effectively manage their support of the developing player.
  • The DVD and booklet provide some examples and advice for how psychological support can be used to help player development by working with players, coaches and parents.

We have selected five articles gathered from experienced professionals in sport psychology, player development and coaching. These are all available for you to read now or download for later.

Talent Development
Nick Holt & John Dunn

The Development of Sport Psychology in Football
Dr Matt Pain
Learn More with David Houlston - Watch the video

Its Easy to Criticise; The Impact of Parents and Coaches
John Allpress
Learn More with S Biddle and P Wylleman - Watch the video

Coaching Young Players
Dick Bate & Craig Simmons
Learn More with S Biddle and P Wylleman - Watch the video

Moving from Playing to Coaching
David Hesse & Chris Harwood
Learn More with P Wylleman - Watch the video

If you have any comments about this topic or any of our articles you can email M.A.Pain@lboro.ac.uk

If you are interested in attending an FA Psychology Course, please click here for a chance to apply http://falearning.thefa.com