Abstract

D'AMICO, A.; CANIZARES HERNANDEZ, M.  and  SANCHEZ RODRIGUEZ, B.P.. The Psychological Preparation of the Venezuelan National Football Team (The Burgundy Team): periods 2001-2007 and 2008-2013. CPD [online]. 2017, vol.17, n.1, pp.59-72. ISSN 1989-5879.

Since 2001, the Venezuelan National Football Team, best known as La Vinotinto, started having victories and gradually became a winning team in present time. One of the tools that contributed to this change was the use of sport psychology. Nevertheless, there is little evidence in Venezuela about the psychological preparation carried out in national football. The purpose of this study was to analyze the characteristics of the psychological preparation applied in the Venezuelan National Football Team (La Vinotinto), for the 2001-2007 and the 2008-2013 periods. Methodologically speaking, the qualitative method was used. The data recollection techniques consisted of in-depth interviews with 25 players and 2 psychologists. Content analysis was used in order to analyze the results. The 2001-2007 periods was characterized by the use of cognitive-behavioral approach by means of cognitive restructuring, systematic desensitization, relaxation and stress coping strategies, motivational conferences, confidence-in-others exercises, audiovisual aids for team work, critical situations and personal growth. The 2008-2013, was characterized by group accompaniment: group dynamics, attention to group leaders, communication, staff counseling, videos and photographic records. At the same time, individual accompaniment was carried out through: participant observation, interviews, emotional support, personal problem counseling, psychological abilities training: relaxation and visualization.

Keywords : La Vinotinto; psychological preparation; sport psychology; football.

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