Introduction to Virtual Reality in Sports
An modern project is using virtual reality to boost the mental well-being and resilience of young athletes, and it’s gaining attention from major sporting organizations across the UK. The University of Derby has teamed up with My Energy Game (MEG) to develop a singular virtual reality game played using a VR headset. This game goals to assist young athletes higher understand and address their self-development.
How the Project Works
The project, pioneered by MEG, a sports psychology company, focuses on sport psychological intervention using VR tools. Its primary goal is to facilitate self-development for enhanced well-being and performance, acting as a preventative measure against mental illness. The game takes athletes through an initial profiling tool that focuses on key attributes related to self-development, corresponding to communication, embracing change, managing disappointment, relationship management, and leadership.
The Gaming Experience
Athletes can select a game that pertains to the attribute they need to develop and progress through the training experience. This interactive approach makes the training process engaging and fun, helping young athletes to develop essential life skills. By using virtual reality, the project offers a singular and immersive experience that may also help athletes construct resilience and improve their mental well-being.
Partnerships and Recognition
The project has attracted attention from the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), with PFA CEO Maheta Molango visiting the University of Derby to check the prototype. A one-year strategic partnership between the University of Derby and MEG has also been established, offering resources corresponding to workshops, webinars, and training aimed toward improving the performance of young athletes. This partnership is a major step forward in recognizing the importance of mental well-being in sports.
Expert Insights
Dr. Andy Hooton, Head of School of Sport and Exercise Science on the University of Derby, believes that the usage of gamified virtual reality tools for positive effect is an emerging and promising field. He emphasizes that the University of Derby is proud to be on the forefront of research into VR and artificial intelligence. Edu Rubio, co-founder of MEG, adds that their partnership goals to drive forward each MEG’s digital offering and the University’s mission to interact with industry leaders.
Conclusion
The use of virtual reality to boost the mental well-being and resilience of young athletes is a groundbreaking project that has the potential to make a major impact within the sports industry. By providing a singular and immersive learning experience, this project may also help young athletes develop essential life skills and construct resilience against mental health challenges. As the project continues to realize recognition and support from major sporting organizations, it’s clear that the long run of sports psychology is exciting and modern.
