Demystifying Mental Toughness4 Huhti 2025

276 How To Help A Footballer Who Focuses Too Much On Other People

Today marks the start of an 8-episode series where David Charlton is joined by a colleague. Gerard Fitzgerald features in this episode, as well as the next 3 episodes. They go on to discuss a case study of a young female footballer, 11 years old with a pseudonym name called Carly who is a sensitive soul who worries too much about other people (team-mates specifically in this case).

We go on to normalise emotional sensitivity in young athletes, highlighting that it can be a strength if managed properly. We also talk about the challenges of emotional sensitivity where young athletes often face mental drain and self-doubt. David and Gerard then go on to share some advice for parents and coaches to manage emotionally sensitive players who can focus too much on their team-mates.

Key Learning Points:

· Explore ways to normalize the emotional experiences of young athletes and help them manage the mental demands of the sport.

· Develop strategies to shift the focus from negative self-criticism and comparison to a more positive, responsibility-based approach.

· The conversation explores how a neutral third party can provide a fresh perspective and help both parents and children understand each other better.

· Constant comparison to teammates can lead to self-doubt and criticism in young athletes and footballers.

· The discussion concludes with a reminder that the win-at-all-costs attitude can sometimes drive young athletes away from sport emphasising the need for fun and enjoyment.

Connect with David Charlton

Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIN

Podcast Episodes Related To The Youth Sport Experience

Ep049: James Maurice – How Does Sport Psychology in Elite Football Academies Help

Ep082: David Charlton – Supporting Children in Sport with Positive Feedback

Ep122: Prof Camilla Knight – Helping Your Children Get The Most From Their Sporting Experiences

Ep131 David Charlton – How to Deal with Self-Criticism using Self Compassion – FINAL PART

Ep141: David Charlton – How to Help a Child Who Wants to Quit Sport

Other Valuable Resources To Help Children, Young Athletes, Parents and Youth Sport Coaches

Youth Sports Psychology Library

Soccer and Football Psychology Library

Conversations With Kids Ideas

Frequently Asked Questions - Sport Psychology for Children and Parents

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310 Risk Orientation: When Coaches and Athletes Think Differently

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309 Interpersonal Confidence: When Coaches and Athletes Think Differently

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308 Confidence In Ability: When Coaches and Athletes Think Differently

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305 Emotional Control: When Coaches and Athletes Think Differently

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