The Challenges and Psychological Skills Training Experiences of Malaysian Elite Field Hockey Players

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to explore the challenges and psychological skills training (PST) experiences of Malaysian elite hockey players. A qualitative research approach was used to obtain individual experiences and players’ perspectives on PST program and their experiences and opinion during their participation as national hockey players. Using a semi-structured interview, five main themes emerged from the inductive content analysis: (1) main challenges and experiences related to participants as elite national hockey players; (2) participants’ opinions regarding their individual psychological needs or requirements; (3) participants opinion regarding PST in hockey; (4) participants perception regarding psychologist or consultant who provides PST to them; and (5) participants experiences with PST program provided as national players. Results showed a variety of psychological skills training approaches acquired by the players, but obviously lack of standard practice, thus reflecting the lack of seriousness to conduct PS especially during development stages. Participants also stressed the importance of PST to be given from early years, due to its benefits to improve their performance. Studies in the future should look into the effectiveness of PST in different stages of players’ maturity, in order to determine the correct plan and procedures for PST to be given.