Some players expend a lot of energy on the search for the perfect swing. The MVB legacy players all had different “games” yet produced similar results.
Technical skills (examples):
- Golf swing
- Basketball free throw
- Gymnastics balance beam
You cannot perform at a higher level by focusing on form during competition. Routine (e.g. pre-serve) can trigger high performance.
The Mental Game
Top players in any sport have an unshakeable belief in their mental approach.
- Focus on the play at hand. No distractions and a short memory…
- Supreme confidence. “I’ll make it.”
- Dispel doubt. Leave it at home. Doubt never helped anyone.
- Competitive character. Use behaviors that support effectiveness (affirmations, visualizations)
- Unselfishness ("It's not your shot, it's our shot")
The Hot Hand
You cannot "outperform" your ability. Hot streaks reflect your peak ability - kills, service points, blocks.
Bring the attitude that you're bringing the "A" game from the outset.
Against Hingham in the fourth set, Danni DiGiorgio goes on a service run with good pace to put Melrose up 4-2. She stuck with what was working.
Do the mental work
- Mindfulness increases focus and reduces stress hormones.
- Film study can help reading plays to quicken reactions.
- Visualize with a three-to-five minute mental "highlight reel" of top plays.
Physical and mental skills combine to elevate performance away from "floor" levels to approach "ceilings."
Lagniappe. Generate more power by involving your core.
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