![Training the mental side Training the mental side](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/9/90028/training-the-mental-side-L-qqNnnz.jpeg)
The most important thing for coaches and players to realize is that all these aspects of mental toughness can be taught, learned, improved, and practiced. The saying, "Either a player is mentally tough or he is not" just doesn't cut it anymore with what we know about the science and study of sports psychology and peak performance. It is true that different players may have a leg up in a few areas than others for a variety of reasons but it is flat out wrong to think that improvements cannot be made.
There are many resources online and on book shelves to teach players and coaches how to go about identifying and addressing areas of weakness on the mental side of things. Use the off-season to expand your knowledge in this area and if you are a player, make it a personal goal to do more to train that side of your game. I guarantee that you will find the information and the improvements it will lead to worthwhile.