In this episode of the Coaching Union podcast, Jonathan Rodriguez delves into the significance of psychosocial characteristics in coaching and athlete development. He emphasizes the need for a structured approach to integrate these characteristics into training, drawing comparisons to established models in other sports. The discussion covers the importance of preparing athletes for emotional challenges, the distinction between psychological skills and characteristics, and practical strategies for fostering resilience, communication, and leadership within teams. Rodriguez also highlights the social dynamics of team sports and the mental aspects that differentiate elite athletes. He concludes with a challenge for coaches to intentionally incorporate psychosocial traits into their practice plans.

List of Psychosocial Characteristics: MacNamara, Button, & Collins (2006, 2010)Pigott, D., & Morgan, G., (2017)

1. Commitment

2. Focus and distraction control

3. Resilience and bouncing back

4. Self-awareness

5. Goal setting

6. Planning and organisation

7. Realistic performance evaluation

8. Coping with pressure

9. Effective imagery

10. Quality practice

11. Seeking and using social support