The mental game: Why sports are more than physical

by Galfusz Sophie Vân

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Sports aren’t just played on the field—they’re fought in the mind long before the whistle blows. The greatest battles are fought in silence, when doubt creeps in and determination takes control.

Being an athlete isn’t just about being physically strong and fast; it's about strategy, mentality, confidence, and so much more. Without having the right mindset, a good player becomes a wasted talent. Behind the many victories and defeats is a story, a long journey that shapes athletes into who they become.

Competing, at any level, sets athletes in a vulnerable position. Missed opportunities, negative judgment, tough practices, and lost matches can test their determination and put their passion at risk. Sports challenge their mindset as much as their muscles. Without a connection, coordination, and understanding between the mind and body, athletes miss out on their full potential and fail to meet expectations. “If your mind tells your body you can’t do it, you will quit. If your body is giving up, but you think you can carry on, you will naturally keep putting one foot in front of the other,” said Ant Middleton. That highlights the importance of mental preparation, which is incorporated with training.

It is so easy to fall victim to a weak and unsteady mindset, resulting in a substantial number of athletes leaving their sports and dreams behind. This is why setting up the right mentality has such a significant impact and is necessary for every player. Many student-athletes find their own way to strengthen this flaw, learning from it instead of dwelling on it, setting goals, following through on routines, and not giving others the power to influence their choices and actions, which in turn affects how they feel. A strong-willed athlete also doesn’t allow personal affairs to get caught up in their sport, managing and balancing life perfectly. It’s never about failing; it's about standing up and bouncing back every single time being knocked down. In addition to building strength and skills, sports also teach the value of discipline and routine. Every athlete knows success and progress don’t come overnight. It takes early mornings, consistent practice, pushing through every moment of doubt, and internal conflicts to reach the desired goal. The dedication and discipline often spill into other aspects, shaping success throughout their life. Whether it’s managing time better, staying committed to responsibilities, or maintaining focus when things get tough, athletes carry these lessons with them. Sports remind us that success isn’t about perfection, but about persistence, showing up, giving your best, and improving a little more each day.

Whether it's a tryout, a championship, or an everyday PE class, the lesson stands: sports teach us how to handle and work under pressure, they teach us determination, confidence, problem-solving, and so many more valuable lessons that extend beyond the classroom. And remember- if you give up, you don’t want it enough.