Have you ever wondered how an athlete could get injured doing something they’ve done “a thousand times?” Of course, some injuries are the result of poor technique, lack of experience, other players, and faulty equipment, but what about the injuries that occur when an athlete knows what they are doing?

Focusing is one of the most important aspects of performance. The ability to focus is a skill that can be learned through deliberate and intentional mental training. But what is focus?

In pivotal moments of gameplay or competition, an athlete’s mindset is often the deciding factor between winning and losing. Nearly every drill, pattern, scrimmage, or practice contribute to an athlete’s mental game, but putting some effort into learning a few key mental training tools will help you achieve extraordinary results.