Marywood University’s Psychelete Club was created by its president Raidan Francis, a sophomore psychology major. This is the first year the club is up and running and Francis has many ideas in mind.
The APA Dictionary of Psychology describes sports psychology as “the application and development of psychological theory for the understanding and enhancement of human behavior in sport.” You can read this information directly at APA Dictionary of Psychology.
The Psychelete Club is all about learning what sports psychology is and the different aspects of the field. The group also focuses on examining what athletes may be thinking and feeling as they play and ways to help athletes’ mental and physical wellbeing.
The NCAA conducted a survey on mental health in student-athletes to see just how many might be struggling. The study consisted of 9,800 student-athletes amongst different colleges in the United States. It found that 38% of those in women’s sports and 22% of those in men’s sports felt mentally exhausted every day. The survey also found many student-athletes deal with sleep difficulties, overwhelming anxiety, sadness and a sense of loss or hopelessness. For more information, visit Mental health issues remain on minds of student-athletes – NCAA.org.
“Sports psychology isn’t a big field, but it’s growing, and I wanted a club where people can show and talk about their interests. There’s so much you can talk about or activities you can do with the brain and sports, separate or combined,” said Francis.
Currently, no upcoming events are set in stone. However, Francis has lots of ideas like a walk and talk, a zumba or dance day to increase body positivity, and even a color run. The club meets bi-weekly on Thursdays from 4-5 p.m. in LC 337 Seminar Room and is welcome to all, whether a student-athlete or simply interested in sports psychology.
When asked what he most hopes to accomplish through the club, Francis said, “I want to spread positive mindsets for athletes and really just being active in general. I want to help athletes feel more comfortable talking about what they go through, and even help increase athletes’ performances.”
To keep an eye out for upcoming meetings or events, follow the club on Instagram.
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