<abstract xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><p> The present paper aims to specifically outline the critical moments that permeate professional football players’ development and existence in elite level English Premiership football. It also recognises the role of the applied sport psychologist in working with top players to address issues that challenge, impact (and change) player identity and personal meaning as they travel through their career from youth to professional to retirement. We conclude the paper by introducing some alternative perspectives on theory and practice. The paper is a result of the combined interests and applied activity of the authors and draws from theoretical frameworks and concepts in social psychology, existential phenomenological psychology and sociology. In this regard the paper attempts to synthesise (and celebrate) complimentary disciplines in order to allow us to consider the individual player within their social context.</p></abstract>

The present paper aims to specifically outline the critical moments that permeate professional football players’ development and existence in elite level English Premiership football. It also recognises the role of the applied sport psychologist in working with top players to address issues that challenge, impact (and change) player identity and personal meaning as they travel through their career from youth to professional to retirement. We conclude the paper by introducing some alternative perspectives on theory and practice. The paper is a result of the combined interests and applied activity of the authors and draws from theoretical frameworks and concepts in social psychology, existential phenomenological psychology and sociology. In this regard the paper attempts to synthesise (and celebrate) complimentary disciplines in order to allow us to consider the individual player within their social context.

Critical Moments in Elite Premiership Football: Who Do You Think You Are?

Physical Culture and Sport. Studies and Research

{"article-title":"Critical Moments in Elite Premiership Football: Who Do You Think You Are?"}

The present paper aims to specifically outline the critical moments that permeate professional football players’ development and existence in elite level...

Critical Moments in Elite Premiership Football: Who Do You Think You Are?

Published Online: Dec 29, 2012

Page range: 23 - 32

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/v10141-012-0027-y

Keywords
critical moments, football, identity

This content is open access.

Critical Moments in Elite Premiership Football: Who Do You Think You Are?

Published Online: Dec 29, 2012

Page range: 23 - 32

DOI: https://doi.org/10.2478/v10141-012-0027-y

Keywordscritical moments, football, identity

This content is open access.

Keywords
critical moments, football, identity