Revs and Psychos: Role, Impact and Interaction of Sport Chaplains and Sport Psychologists within English Premiership Soccer

Abstract

Despite an increased focus on spirituality and athlete well-being in sport (Watson, 2011), there is limited research regarding those who provide support to the athlete in these areas. The aim of this study was to explore the practice of sport psychologists and sport chaplains within professional soccer, and identify potential for working partnerships. By interviewing three psychologists and four chaplains who are employed currently within English Premiership soccer, it was revealed that significant overlap in their roles existed. The psychologists and chaplains identified barriers that restricted support offered to players, which may be addressed by working cooperatively in the future.

Sport, Chaplaincy and Holistic Support: The Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP) in English Professional Football

“…This helps to build trust and to overcome potential barriers between staff and players. In English professional football the sports chaplain is often seen as a key provider of help and support for those experiencing adversity and as someone who players and staff respect in terms of trust and integrity (Gamble, Hill & Parker, 2013;Nesti, 2010).…”

“…More recent research has suggested that there is a degree of overlap between the role of the sports chaplain and that of the sport psychologist, the former being viewed as someone who is primarily interested in the well-being of the person, the latter as being primarily concerned with the enhancement of player performance (Nesti, 2010). Gamble et al (2013) observe that the sport psychologist and the sports chaplain bear similarities in their roles particularly concerning pastoral care, but that sports chaplains can also offer spiritual support which may facilitate discussion around specific faith issues as well as enhancing player contentment.…”

“…Moreover, Nesti (2010) identifies an "overlap regarding issues of confidentiality and trust" (p. 109) across these roles to the extent that a cohesive working relationship between the two would appear sensible (Gamble et al, 2013).…”

“…Indeed, it is now relatively rare not to have a sports chaplain working as part of the broader holistic support network in English Premier League clubs. As noted, the chaplain can offer practical, spiritual and pastoral support, and assistance with issues that are not specifically sport-related (Gamble et al 2013;Nesti & Sulley, 2015). However, reticence on the part of players and staff to engage with chaplains can sometimes occur due to the 6 mistaken perception that the chaplain's role is to proselytise their faith.…”

Religion, Spirituality, and Sport: FromReligio AthletaeTowardSpiritus Athletae

“…Sport has been explored not only by philosophers, sociologists, or psychologists but also by theologians, priests, and religious leaders (Parker & Weir, 2012). The role of sport chaplaincy is increasingly visible (Dzikus, Waller, & Hardin, 2011;Gamble, Hill, & Parker, 2013). The theme of religion and spirituality in human movement activities opens a currently expanding ideological space, which calls for deeper reflection.…”