Melanie Fowler
Research Mentor(s): Michael Mignano
Mentor Department: Movement Science
Authors: Melanie Fowler, Michael Mignano
Session: Session 5 (2:00pm – 2:50pm)
Presentation Type: Poster 41
Abstract
The position of goaltender comes with unique challenges and technical skills. In sports psychology, there has been a significant amount of research done on the psychology of the players, however little attention has been dedicated solely to goaltenders. The current research aims to examine and explore the variables associated with rituals in warmups and after along with impact. Goalkeepers tend to be seen as the more superstitious position, doing different rituals before, during, and after games to help them. Therefore, the current study focuses on warmups, rituals, and superstitions in soccer goalkeepers. To do this, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with high school age goalies. These interviews were conducted to have an in-depth conversation with these athletes and understand the psychological and cognitive processes behind their actions. An analysis of these interviews gives a better insight into the different methods of preparing for games, commonalities and differences between goalkeepers. These athletes give us a more in-depth and nuanced look at their methods and how they may evolve throughout one’s career. This study will utilize a thematic analysis based on participant responses and the perceived effect of superstitions and/or rituals on athletes confidence and performance. Understanding where these habits may come from and how they are applied to the athlete’s game may help to support these athletes along with getting more insight into their methods, leading to applied and practical implications for coaches and sport psychology consultants.
