Date of Graduation

2007

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

Committee Chair

Andrew C. Ostrow

Abstract

Support for the use of preshot routines and deep breathing in youth sport is limited, yet the available research in this area suggests that this skill can be useful for improving performance and reducing anxiety in youth athletes (Lidor & Singer, 2000; Mamassis & Doganis, 2004). The aim of this study was to determine the effects of preshot routine and deep breathing interventions among youth tennis players. Six male and female tennis players ages 9-11 participated in this study. Participants completed the Children’s Form of the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2C; Stadulis, Eidson, MacCracken, & Severance, 1995) and performed a serving task throughout the study. Results showed the third phase (deep breathing and preshot routine) was most effective in improving serving performance among the participants. Application of these findings and suggestions for further research directions are discussed.

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