Do You Step Up in Big Games?

Most athletes train hard all year long to make it to the playoffs or a state level competition. It’s clear to me that “the cream always rises to the top” during big games–the top athletes raise the level of their performance when they need it the most. I’m sure you’re also aware that some athletes mentally crumble in big games–they allow the pressure to cause them to tighten up. They are overcome by a tsunami of anxiety or fear about not getting to the playoffs.

I know from my experience as a mental coach that athletes tighten up because they worry too much about the outcome, which leads to trying too hard or playing with a tentative mindset. When you’re tense about outcomes and not focused on the current play, pitch, or shot, you can’t step up your performance in big games…

Playing in a big game or the playoffs should be the most fun for athletes. It’s your season-end reward. It’s the fruit of all your hard work during the season. However, in order to enjoy the big game, you must have faith or trust in what you have practiced all season. Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers pitcher, is a good example of this…

Read how Justin Verlander steps up in big games…