Building Pre-Game Confidence
Confidence grows when athletes use a repeatable routine before competition.
Confidence on game day is rarely something athletes just 'feel.' It’s the result of preparation, routines, and knowing exactly what helps you perform your best. Instead of hoping confidence shows up, build a system that creates it.
Pre-game confidence routines help settle nerves and prime the mind. They remind athletes of past success, their training, and the habits that make them ready.
Build pre-game confidence:
- Review 2–3 past successful moments
- Repeat a simple self-talk cue you trust
- Visualize the first play or rep
- Breathe slowly to calm your system
Vealey, Sources of Sport Confidence (1986)
Confidence On Purpose\n• Confidence comes from preparation\n• Build routines, not wishful thinking\n• See success before it happens
Use a 3-step confidence routine before your next practice or game.
