Concentration
Edward Hillam looks at how goalkeepers can improve their concentration between the sticks.
The ability to concentrate is a hugely underrated aspect of the game. The focus is critical, and a momentary blip could result in a crucial error that may win or lose the game for your team. As a goalkeeper, there is always the temptation to switch off for a few seconds, mainly if the action occurs at the other end of the pitch; it is relatively common to let the mind wander.
Goalkeeping is one of the most critical positions on the pitch. Over the years, there have been many iconic stoppers, with several of them playing into their late 30s and/or early 40s. They may only be deployed on a handful of occasions, but they can be the difference between picking up a crucial point and being on the end of a heavy defeat.
Gigi Buffon is a household name that is still going strong despite turning 40 in January 2017.
Although he may have retired from international football, he still regularly competes at the top level and remains one of the most consistent performers in Serie A.
Buffon's Juventus are in a two-way tussle for the title in the Italian top flight this season. They are currently priced as the 4/5 favourites to finish above Napoli and land their seventh successive Scudetto. Buffon has played an integral part in every single one of those triumphs. |
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Relaxing the mind is essential to producing a confident performance. Forgetting any off-the-field troubles is a necessity. Stressed athletes are regularly unable to perform to their highest standard, and it is easy to get tangled up in thoughts of a financial or personal nature when there is a lull in play. This must be avoided at all costs. A good night's sleep is the best way to relax, and listening to music or ten minutes of meditation are two other methods that professionals regularly deploy.
Familiar routines are also a vital part of any sportsman's day. These can focus the body and mind ahead of the match. They also help avoid any external distractions that may creep into a goalkeeper's conscience during the 90 minutes. Players like David James often implemented a routine that began the night before a game and continued until kick-off. Footballers are superstitious, but these help them focus and keep their minds on the job.
The diet also plays a big part in the process. Although many footballers who compete at an elite level will have nutritionists and teams of experts ensuring they eat the right foods, this isn't applicable or affordable at the lower level. Drinking plenty of water will help sharpen the mind and improve reaction time. A diet containing plenty of greens such as spinach, kale, and broccoli can hugely positively affect the brain and performance.
Being a goalkeeper may not be the most glamorous position on a football team. Still, it is an important role that can sometimes result in achieving hero status and helping your side climb the table or qualify for the next round of the cup. The mind is sharp, fresh, focused, and ready for action, and several techniques can help ensure your brain is firmly focused on the action.
Page Reference
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- HILLAM, E. (2018) Concentration [WWW] Available from: https://www.brianmac.co.uk/articles/article291.htm [Accessed
About the Author
Edward Hillam has been writing for a few years now, and sports are one of his favourite topics—from football to hockey and MMA. He's also been reviewing movies and series; cinema is one of his other passions. He watches them all and has created content for several sports publishers.