What the Experts Say

Don't believe me. Read about what the experts say

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 Key Findings/Additional Resources

1. A study of adolescent athletes found that modeling via role-models significantly increased self-efficacy and flow state. In other words: observing credible role models helped young athletes b

    Lee, S., Kwon, S., & Ahn, J. (2021). The Effect of Modeling on Self-Efficacy and Flow State of Adolescent Athletes Through Role Models. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 661557. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.661557

    

    

   2) Research into sports role models shows that when athletes are seen as role-models, their behaviour influences not just performance, but self-concept and identity formation among their peers and followers.  https://efsupit.ro/images/stories/october2023/Art296.pdf?utm_source=

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3. Literature on youth sport emphasises that role modelling by parents, coaches and older players must be positive and intentional if the athlete is to develop healthy psychological and emotional skill sets. Poor modelling (e.g., undue pressure, negative behaviour) can undermine emotional health. Merkel, D. L. (2013). Youth sport: Positive and negative impact on young athletes. Open Access Journal of Sports Medicine, 4, 151. https://doi.org/10.2147/OAJSM.S33556

    

4. Studies of elite athlete influence suggest that the motivation, participation and internalisation of sport values among younger players are higher when they identify with role models whose values align with theirs. Kelly, E., Liston, K., Dowd, K., & Lane, A. (2024). 239 The Influence of role models on participation in sport and physical activity among young males and females in Ireland. European Journal of Public Health, 34(Supplement_2). https://doi.org/10.1093/eurpub/ckae114.028

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 Implications for Competitive Tennis Players (From an EQ Perspective)

• Being a role model enhances your emotional intelligence because you must become aware of your behaviors and their impact upon others.

• Being a Role Model reinforces self-awareness and self-regulation, two core EQ components. If you know others may observe you, that influences your choices on court and off.

• Being a Role Model heightens social awareness: recognizing that your coach-player, parent-child, teammate-opponent dynamics matter; you’re modelling emotional composure in all your affairs.

• Being a Role Model supports motivation and perseverance: when younger players or peers look up to you, it strengthens your intrinsic motivation, aiding in sustaining high EQ and long-term success.

• Being a Role Model builds character and long-term reputation: Emotional intelligence dictates how we respond to adversity. Being a role model must align with the high-standards of character, emotional maturity, and legacy you set for yourself.

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