By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
Three schools are hard at work preparing for the Danone Nations Cup world finals in Spain in October. Muzuvukile Primary from Kwazulu-Natal, Nomlinganiselo from Western Cape and a girls’ team from Rebonwe Primary School in Gauteng are upping their game plan to make sure they are ready to take on the world’s best in Barcelona from the 10-12th of October 2019.
The former South African Swimming champion, Dr Kirsten van Heerden who is now a sports psychologist said this will be a once in a lifetime experience for the upcoming players where they will come head to head against 29 countries to prove to the world that South African soccer development is being invested. Heerden further said, South Africa is as good as any other country at this level.
“Whilst it will be important to prepare technically, our players will need to prepare mentally too. Travelling overseas for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming for any athlete.
“Not only do you need to cope with the pressure of international competition, but the travel experience itself is hard. The long-haul flight, hanging around airports, eating different food, meeting different people – it can all be quite difficult to cope with; even though it is fun at the same time,” she said.
She advised coaches to do more research on their opponents. Heerden added knowing your opponents, their strengths and weaknesses are a key component of preparation.
“It’s also, a great opportunity for the players to learn about a new country before experiencing it first-hand. It’s experiential learning at it very best and one of the great things about sport, getting a chance to experience the world.
“Preparing to compete internationally is different. Preparations are similar for any competition, but for that level of play, it’s even more important. You may not win as easily as you do at home, so our children should focus on the process and not just the outcome,” said Heerden.
She further said confidence is critical and it is a key mental skill. Heerden said the kids need to believe they can win, but losing is part of the sport too and losing is not failing.
“Focus on competing well and give your best. Do not overemphasize winning, but bear in mind that competing for your country is always a proud moment. For me, rather than remember any one moment, I can look back at my career in its entirety (both the happy and disappointing times) and I feel really good.
“Coaches play a crucial role in a young athlete’s life. A lot of time is spent with the coach, and the relationship between coach and athlete can help improve performance. The best athletes are the hardest workers. They put in the extra training time. Look at where your competitive edge is,” she said.
Heerden said players may be faster, more skillful or maybe handle pressure well. She said all athletes and teams need to work out what their competitive edge is and use it.
“There is much to gain from a tour like this. Sport teaches you much about yourself, dealing with failure, dealing with success, working in a team and much more. Travelling internationally and experiencing a new country and culture also broadens your horizons and opens your eyes.
“When the kids get back on home soil, I expect they will be more focused and experienced, with a lot more vision. You come back with a set of experiences and new friends that you didn’t have before. My advice to the girls and boys is to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the beautiful city of Barcelona,” she concluded.
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