Accra: Mr. Kofi Iddie Adams, the Minister for Sports and Recreation, has praised the National Sports College for introducing a training program on Sports Psychology aimed at coaches and other sports personnel. He highlighted the significant impact sports psychology has had on athletes' success over the years, motivating them to deliver their best performances.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister shared these remarks during the inauguration of a four-day Certificate Course in Sports Psychology organized by the National Sports College in collaboration with the National Sports Authority at the Accra Sports Stadium. He emphasized the necessity for coaches to understand the role of psychology in athlete training, considering it a crucial step towards achieving greater career milestones.
Mr. Adams noted that some athletes experience stage fright when competing in front of large audiences or against renowned international athletes, which can be intimidating. He stated that incorporating psychological training would equip athletes to perform at optimal levels. Additionally, he cautioned the media about the negative impact of unfavorable reporting on athletes' performances.
The inaugural Sports Psychology course aims to foster a robust sense of self-belief and confidence among athletes, coaches, and sports administrators. Mr. Bawah Fuseini, Acting Director General of the National Sports College, described the course as a significant development. He mentioned that the certificate program would enhance athletes' performance and assist administrators in effectively preparing sportsmen and women.
Mr. Fuseini asserted that the course marks the beginning of ongoing training initiatives, including other essential programs planned at the Winneba Sports College. He acknowledged that while talent and performance are crucial, the psychological aspect of sports has been overlooked, and the college, with support from the ministry and the NSA, aims to address this gap.
Additionally, Mr. Fuseini announced that individuals who could not participate in the inaugural Sports Psychology course would have the opportunity to enroll later in the year. Mr. Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, Acting Director General of the National Sports Authority, expressed enthusiasm for partnering with the National Sports College to launch the course, recognizing it as the start of a promising new chapter in sports training and development.
