Today I'm joined by a South African professional rugby player, Sebastian De Chaves, who is currently plying his trade in the USA with Austin Gilgronis and has represented a number of Premiership Rugby clubs. We discuss mental toughness in elite professional rugby, the use of sport psychology, typical challenges that rugby players and coaches face and common psychological demands of the sport.

Key Learning Points:

• Mental toughness is being able on an individual level, to get your job done and perform to the best of your ability when things aren't going well.
• Mentally tough players execute under massive amounts of pressure.
• Focusing on what you can control is essential.
• Don't let your emotions in the game take over.
• Always look to learn from top performers.
• Maintaining a balance off the pitch is important for optimal performance and well-being.

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To Listen to Football or Soccer Podcast Episodes

Podcast Ep07: Toby Flood - How Elite Athletes Mentally Prepare

Podcast Ep21: Steve Hackney – How to Reach Your Full Potential

Podcast Ep29: Lome Faatau – How to Play Professional Rugby with Confidence

Podcast Ep038: Taz Bricknell - Playing Professional Women's Rugby

Podcast Ep039: John Fletcher – How to Develop Fearless Athletes

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