Валентина Іванівна Шишацька

In volleyball, as in other sports, special attention should be paid to the individual characteristics of the athlete. However, this is often neglected. Most problems arise when the selection criteria for a role are not a player’s personal qualities, but rather their technical and tactical skills (tallness, a strong dominant arm, etc.). Here, it’s not just the player’s skills that matter, but also how they present themselves as a person. Many personal qualities are determined by a person’s genetic code, which cannot be changed. The nervous system, temperament, and character play a crucial role in success in volleyball. Athletes’ activities during volleyball are subject to many specific characteristics inherent to the game. The fast pace, the variety and unexpectedness of game situations, the interaction with teammates, the intermittent pace, and other characteristics place mental demands on volleyball players that are markedly different from those placed on, for example, a gymnast during gymnastics exercises. A volleyball player must be able to quickly and accurately navigate changing conditions, instantly switch from one situation to another, and be prepared for any actions by teammates and opponents. The time constraints of fast-paced play place high demands on reaction time and decision-making. Two main types of neuropsychological resilience can be distinguished: players with an unstable nervous system and those with an inert nervous system. In the former case, a player may involuntarily change their mental state before an important game, sometimes becoming calm, sometimes excited. It is important to properly prepare such volleyball players. High-intensity and prolonged training before the game will help them focus and distract themselves from external stress. An athlete with this type of nervous system should focus on the technique and precision of the elements they perform. In the case of an inert nervous system, training should be focused on mental work. Before the game, a volleyball player should begin psychological preparation, which will consist of positive and negative mental stimulation based on the athlete’s personal experience. When working during training or warm-ups, it’s important to emphasize the athlete’s potential dangers.