A YEARLY MENTAL TRAINING-PROGRAM FOR A COLLEGE BASKETBALL PLAYER

The purpose of this case study was to assess the characteristics, prescribe a collaborative mental training program, and evaluate the performance progress of a NCAA Division I female basketball player across a season of play. The assessment of the player included Nideffer's (1981) Test for Attentional and Interpersonal Style and an interview with the athlete using Kroll's (1979) Competitive Athletic Stress Scale. Based on this assessment, a psychological skills training program was developed for the athlete during the off-season. The athlete was monitored from preseason to the end of postseason through observation and interviews. The collaborative mental training program which was employed included imagery, centering, focusing, and energizing. The evaluation of the athlete indicated a decrease in pregame anxiety, and an improvement in game performance statistics, practice performance, and the coach's overall evaluation of the athlete.