Psychology in sport held a very active role in preparation and during the Commonwealth games in Manchester 2002. When it comes to athletes who compete in such a prestigious and competitive event, sport psychology in all its facets becomes a huge burden to face. If the athlete can stay calm composed and remain competitive in such an event then this can be of profound help.

Concentrating on the individual, psychology asks many questions, such as why do people continue to participate despite pain? Why do people continue to be successful? Why do people try to improve there skills, in other words, what motivates people? Such areas as the personality, self-confidence and the attitude of an athlete may help answer these questions.

Motivation is seen to have two aspects, firstly it drives us to achieve something (it stimulates our behaviour) and secondly it makes us do particular things (it directs...