BUILDING CONFIDENCE AND OVERCOMING FEAR IN YOUTH SOCCER: A PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACH TO PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

Autori

  • Arman Sargsyan PFSA Scoutin Department, United Soccer Federation, Coaching Department GCC, Los Angeles CA, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejpe.v13i1.6475

Cuvinte cheie:

youth sport psychological stress coaching style football soccer motivation inteligence.

Rezumat

This article reviews psychological interventions for building self-confidence and reducing fear of failure in youth soccer players. Research in sports psychology and the experience of elite soccer coaches both point to the effectiveness of a supportive, mastery-based approach. To reduce youth players’ fear of failure, coaches should prioritize building a growth mindset, teaching mental skills, and positive coaching. The article describes relevant literature on confidence and fear in sports, evidence-based interventions, and applications to soccer coaching for players and teams. Case study examples from coaching practice illustrate these approaches in action. The goal is to provide coaches and sport psychologists with effective tools to help young athletes overcome fear and thrive under pressure, resulting in better performance and player retention and well-being.

 

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Biografie autor

  • Arman Sargsyan, PFSA Scoutin Department, United Soccer Federation, Coaching Department GCC, Los Angeles CA, USA

    Arman Sargsyan is an independent researcher youth soccer coach, scout and author specializing in player development, sports psychology, and long-term athlete development. His work focuses on motivational climate, confidence building, and decision-making in youth football, with an emphasis on creating psychologically safe learning environments for young athletes.

Referințe

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Publicat

2026-01-13

Număr

Volum 13 Nr. 1 (2026)

Secțiune

Articles

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