Effect of Mental Imagery on the Performance of Male University Football Players

Authors

  • Tehreem Gul Lecturer, Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan.
  • Ramisha Riaz M.Phil. Scholar, Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan
  • Atika Farooqi M.Phil. Scholar, Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Muslim Youth University Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of imagery techniques on the performance of male football players at the University of Haripur. Football, as a globally celebrated sport, requires not only physical prowess but also psychological resilience and strategic thinking. The research highlights the significance of various types of imagery skill, strategy, goal, affect, and mastery in enhancing player performance. A survey was conducted among 50 male football players, utilizing a structured questionnaire to gather data on their experiences and perceptions regarding imagery techniques. The findings reveal that players exhibit strong abilities in skill and affective imagery, indicating ease in visualizing technical improvements and emotional experiences during play. Goal imagery also showed high scores, particularly in envisioning competitive success. Conversely, participants struggled with strategy and mastery imagery, suggesting difficulty in mentally planning game tactics and maintaining confidence under pressure. These results highlight both the potential and the limitations of mental imagery use among university level players. The study concludes with recommendations for structured mental skills training, aiming to strengthen strategic thinking and resilience through guided visualization exercises, thereby improving overall football performance and psychological readiness.

Keywords: Imagery, Football Players, University

Author Biographies

Tehreem Gul, Lecturer, Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan.

Lecturer, Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan.

Ramisha Riaz, M.Phil. Scholar, Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan

M.Phil. Scholar, Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, The University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan

Atika Farooqi, M.Phil. Scholar, Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Muslim Youth University Islamabad, Pakistan

M.Phil. Scholar, Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Muslim Youth University Islamabad, Pakistan

Published

2025-06-29

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 1 (2025): THE SPARK

Section

Articles

License

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