EP97: David Wheeler (Sport Psychologist-in-Training and Former Professional Footballer)

David Wheeler amassed over 600 appearances in his football career, representing clubs such as Exeter City, Wycombe Wanderers, and Queens Park Rangers. Since retiring, he has begun his formal training to become an accredited sport psychologist, building on his Masters degree.

In this episode, Reading first team coach Danny Schofield joins host Dr Paul Mansell to quiz David on his perceptions of performing under pressure. Danny acts David to reflect on his experiences as an academy footballer and how he coped with rejection from Brighton. David explains the term 'diversification of identity', and how an athletic identity may become all-consuming. We explore what it is like to play at Wembley, and how imagery might be useful to prepare for a big occasion. David also outlines his plans for the future including the approach he hopes to adopt as a sport psychologist.

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