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Sir Clive Woodward has been one of the most influential figures in my life. He has shared his wisdom at events like the FA Managers and Coaches Conference and even volunteered his time to speak with my MSc students at Brunel University—for free. His commitment to educating and inspiring others shows the kind of leader he truly is. One of …

What World Heavyweight Boxing Can Teach Us About Teamwork, Resilience, and Preparation: Lessons from Derek Chisora vs. Tyson Fury Have you ever wondered what goes through a boxer’s mind before the biggest fight of their life? I had the privilege of working with Derek Chisora for his heavyweight championship clash against Tyson Fury at White Hart Lane in front of …

In 1982, Tottenham Hotspur made a bold and game-changing decision: they hired a psychologist, the brilliant John Syer. This groundbreaking move acknowledged that mental strength is just as vital as physical skill in achieving greatness. By 1985, after reading Syer’s book Team Spirit, I was hooked on the psychology of teams. The idea of blending individual strengths to create something …

Managing a sports team is a bit like juggling flaming torches—exciting, but you’re bound to get singed! Let’s talk about those oops and arrgh moments that drive sports managers up the wall:1. Inconsistent Performance: Ask Alex Ferguson how nerve-wracking it was when Manchester United started the 1992-93 season with a string of poor performances, only to turn it around and …

Sports managers know well that anything that can go wrong will go wrong! Here are five more frustrations that test your psychological well-being: 6. Communication Issues: When Steve Kerr took over the Golden State Warriors, he prioritized fostering open, honest communication with his players and staff. His emphasis on collaborative dialogue and clear messaging wasn’t just a tool for sharing …

Transitioning from Sports to a New Career Switching from athletic competition to a new career is a tough challenge for many athletes. Some successfully use their skills and fame to build post-sport careers, but others struggle with finding purpose and direction. This change is especially hard for those used to a structured life where coaches dictate their schedules, and support …

As a performance psychology expert, I’ve seen how the pursuit of greatness can lead people astray. Cheating in sports isn’t just about breaking the rules—it’s a complex mix of ambition, ego, and sometimes a lost moral compass. In this article, we’ll explore why athletes cheat and revisit some of the most notorious cheating scandals across sports. Why Do Athletes Cheat …