Mental Performance for Husky Student-Athletes

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Jim Karcance, Mental Performance Coach
James.karcanes@maine.edu | (207) 572-6619

What is Mental Performance?

Mental performance coaching is a form of applied sport psychology which encourages athletes and coaches to achieve performance excellence through the power of the mind. At its core, mental performance is a dynamic process which empowers athletes to optimize their mental skills, cultivate resilience, and unlock their full potential. More than just a support mechanism, it is a holistic approach to athletic and coaching development, focusing on the connection between the mind and body. 

Through evidence-based approaches, methods, and interventions, a mental performance coach works directly with athletes and coaches to enhance crucial mental attributes such as focus, imagery, motivation, mindfulness, and emotional regulation. They help athletes develop a resilient mindset, enabling them to bounce back from setbacks stronger than before and turn challenges into opportunities for growth. They also help equip athletes with the tools to manage performance anxiety, imagine success, and maintain optimal levels of arousal during competition. 
 

 What can Mental Performance do for an athlete's performance?

Mental performance coaching goes beyond just mental toughness; it directly impacts an athlete's physical abilities in profound ways. One of these primary methods is by optimizing focus. Through targeted techniques and exercises, athletes learn to sharpen their focus, which allows them to tune out irrelevant distractions. This heightened focus translates directly to improved movements, reaction time, and overall physical execution.
Further, mental performance coaching equips athletes with mental skills to effectively manage stress and anxiety, both on and off the field. By learning to control their emotions and maintain composure under pressure athletes can perform at their best when it matters most. When athletes believe in their abilities and trust their training, they can push themselves to new levels. By harnessing the power of the mind, athletes can achieve performance levels once thought impossible.

Mental performance coaching also plays a crucial role in injury prevention and rehabilitation. By cultivating resilience and a growth mindset, athletes are better equipped to navigate the challenges of injury and recovery. They learn to imagine success, maintain motivation, and adhere to rehabilitation protocols, resulting in faster and more complete recovery times. As a result, athletes regain confidence post-injury and can focus on improving their overall performance.

What is Offered at USM (Individual, Group, Team, etc.)

All USM athletes and coaches have access to support from our Mental Performance Coach, Dr. Jim Karcanes. Jim has an extensive background working with high performers and athletes. During his 21 years as an Army Officer, Jim led and positively impacted the mental performance of his Soldiers during Combat Operations during three tours to Iraq. Jim has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a master’s degree in Physical Education and Kinesiology, an MBA, and a doctorate in Sport and Performance Psychology. His experience as an endurance coach along with his education and military training allows him to truly understand the mind-body connection and take an integrated approach when working with athletes. Jim has an office in the athletic department (Room 106) and offers individual, confidential sessions, small groups sessions, team sessions, and a weekly Mindfulness Class every Monday evening.

Please contact Jim Karcanes at james.karcanes@maine.edu  or (207) 572-6619 for additional information. Or scan the QR code to see available mental performance coaching sessions.