Margaret Periard
Research Mentor(s): Michael Mignano
Mentor Department: Movement Science
Authors:
Session: Session 5 (2:00pm – 2:50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 47
Abstract
Goalkeepers in futsal and soccer face unique psychological challenges that influence their performance and mentality. While both sports are fairly similar, the distinct dynamics of each game demand different mental skill sets, especially from goalies. In soccer, the field and team are both larger and the game is slower paced, whereas with futsal, it entails a smaller court and team and it is fast paced, requiring quick reactions. These key differences could impact goalies’ mentality. Through in-depth research, literature reviews, and qualitative interviews with early adult goalkeepers previously at competitive levels, this research comparatively analyzes how the psychological challenges affect the goalkeepers in futsal and soccer. Findings will likely highlight differences in soccer and futsal due to mental challenges, struggles of each goalie, and the different physical and mental skill sets required for a goalie in each sport. Furthermore, this project examines the role of self-criticism, confidence, and environmental influences on goalkeepers’ mentality within both sports. By understanding these differences, this research aims to help combat the negative impacts on goalkeepers’ mental aspects of the game, hopefully enabling them to better manage the psychological demands of their sport and therefore improving their performance. The findings will also offer insights into the causes and how to counteract self-criticism, how to maintain a positive outlook and confidence while playing each sport, how an environment can impact a goalie and the intersection between the two sports.The current comparative analysis sheds light on the differences and similarities of mental challenges for goalies in soccer and futsal.
