The Psychology of Snooker

Mark Williams - The Model Temperament

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 14:32:11 +0100

Mark Williams has been demonstrating the temperament of a champion this week at the World Open in Glasgow in both matches played so far. He looked in devastating form in his match against Ali Carter. In the best of 5 format this may well suit Mark's temperament and attitude to the game. In the first few days of the competition the SECC has been labelled "twitch city" as nerves and confidence play a big part in seeing through a win.

Key Psychological Issues and Problems for Snooker Players

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 21:13:31 +0100

Here is a selection of psychological issues presented by players of all standards that were of concern in different ways.

“Confidence” - a catch all for many issues.
Useful states - accessing ideal states for snooker
Mindsets - beliefs that are useful
Accessing self belief - how you represent your own ability to yourself
Self Belief – Unable to Win Certain Games or Tournaments
Self Image - how you see yourself as a player, sportsman etc
Transferring form from the practise table to match play and important events.
Mental Blocks – certain shots – certain situations
Improving Concentration and Focus - attention in and on the game
Composure & Balance - stability under pressure
Inconsistency - best, norm and worst - variation of
Not improving or going backwards - not developed as a player/stagnation
Handling Pressure - self explanatory
Dealing with Distractions - staying aligned with the game
Self limiting behaviour - bad habits & routines
Personal Conflicts - addictions etc.
Motivation – Quality Practise & Winning Mentality
Accessing top form states
Developing the winning mentality - Killer instinct etc, determination
Handling Mistakes & Misses - Reset stategies
Healing the Wounds of Battle - Dealing with sports related trauma - mental scarring.

Stephen Hendrys Competitive Tenacity

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 23:15:26 +0100

In a recent interview Stephen made it clear he always took the position of the champion from an early age. Whether it was Steve Davis, Schumacher, Federer he always wanted them to win. To strike the killer blow. He hated the underdog winning. In associating with a champion (taking the position as them in the event - so for instance watching an event as though playing) puts a different perspective on a game. We can get a sense of the determination and toughness.