TIPS FOR A GREAT GAME

Athletes Do It, Gamblers Should Too

The FIFA 2022 World Cup recently finished in Qatar. Argentina defeated France in an incredible final match while Croatia dispatched Morocco in the entertaining match for third place. Soccer is the world’s most popular sport and I’m so glad to see the increased interest in “The Beautiful Game” here in the U.S.

Soccer players, like all athletes, rely on mental health techniques in order to enhance their physical and team performance on match day. I find it interesting that so many soccer players use visualization and other simple skills to give themselves the extra edge. In my opinion, gamblers should be employing the same strategies to up their game during a casino visit, and in their lives in general.

Here’s a quote from Wayne Rooney, a famous English soccer player: Part of my preparation is I go and ask the [equipment] man what [color] we're wearing. If it's red top, white shorts, white socks or black socks. Then I lie in bed the night before the game and visualize myself scoring goals or doing well. You're trying to put yourself in that moment and trying to prepare yourself to have a 'memory' before the game. I don't know if you'd call it visualizing or dreaming but I've always done it, my whole life.

And here’s a quote from Argentinian soccer superstar (some say G.O.A.T.)

Lionel Messi: I like to imagine things, like the opposing defenders and what might happen. And, obviously, in your imagination, it always turns out for the best. Before a game, it’s similar to how I am at training. I don’t have any ritual. I just put on whatever item of clothing is nearest to me. I’m not the sort of person who goes around screaming and shouting before a game either. I prefer to remain calm, with my own thoughts, and think of some situations that I’m likely to face in the game.

Other strategies used by athletes and teams, regardless of their sport, include:

• Do not speak negatively about yourself.

• Stay away from people who dismiss or diminish your goals.

• Stop trying to please everyone.

• Don’t dwell on past mistakes.

• Don’t give up after a few roadblocks or failed attempts.

• Believe you are good enough, strong enough, and capable of creating your future.

• Cherish time with yourself.

Have A Lucky & Mentally Healthy Month!