Raise Your Game: How do you prepare for a match?

Anna Mayes: I have a fairly relaxed approach in terms of the build-up initially to the game. But, when I'm in the venue, putting my stuff on the bench and throughout the warm-up, I like it to be relaxed but focused and precise.

Also, in terms of the mental skills that I use, I would say 'self-talk', and during the relaxation time of travelling to or from the venue or time spent in my room, I use a lot of mental imagery.

RYG: What does that preparation entail?

AM: Getting to the venue, it would just be recapping what my game plan would be and the team's game plan, imagery from what I've done well in the past and the feelings I've generated from that, whether that's parts of games or a particular game that I can remember.

Then, when I'm at the venue, there are certain things that I like to go through in terms of my ball activities. I like to have my heart racing before I go on to play because I play a position that's aerobically demanding.

I'm not too worried if the practice of our individual skills or our team ball work doesn't go according to plan, I just look for a 'key word' in terms of talking to myself before I go on.

RYG: And this is something you keep going throughout the game?

AM: Yes, totally. If I make an error there will be a 'cue word' for my focusing. If I'm out of position, I just reiterate what my game plan is. If I have done well, then there is a momentary thing where I praise myself and then focus back onto what I'm doing.

RYG: Do you think these skills can be learned or acquired?

AM: I think mental skills are really underestimated. I think it's actually a lot of common sense in the sense that we use them in everyday life. It's also identifying that when we do use them, they can be incorporated into our training, as well as our game or competition.

They're not just for sport, I mean, goal setting is a great example which you can use throughout life. Imagery is another example. I'm sure you imagined your route to getting here (the National Sports Centre) and your route back; you're continuously using it throughout life.

I do think at the top level, it has a key aspect to play. Everyone is trying to be as fit as they can be and as skilful as they can be, so I think mental toughness and mental ability at the highest level is critical.

RYG: Do these preparation skills cross into your working life?

AM:Yes, in making sure I've got a set timetable, and that I know where I'm going and what my aims are. Being organised and making sure I'm on top of my lesson plans [Anna is a lecturer at UWIC], and in terms of all my coaching.