Mental Preparation Strategies of Iran's Elite Soccer Goalkeepers befor a Competition

The purpose of this research was to study mental preparation strategies used by Iran''s elite soccer goalkeepers. Phenomenological approach in qualitative research was used. In this study، seven Iranian elite goalkeepers with experience of participation in national teams or super-league were interviewed using in-depth، open-ended، and semi-structured interviews. The goal of this research was to categorize and report specific strategies used during days leading to a competition. Data was analyzed using open and coaxial coding as well as hierarchical analytical methods. Results from data analysis showed that the most important strategies to prepare elite goalkeepers mentally and behaviorally just days before a competition included: a). effective and useful practice، b). self-confidence building strategies، c). goal-setting، d). planning competition، e). motivational strategies، and f). motivational strategies. In addition، preparation strategies used on the day of competition included: a). emotional monitoring & regulation، b). strategic utilization of distraction، c). strategies to create motivation، d). imagery، e). thought control، and f). pre-game routines. Considering differences in preparation strategies in various sports، it is important to obtain a deeper understanding of such needs in order to be able to design and implement effective counseling and psychological interventions that are appropriate to specific needs of athletes.