Part 2: “Dan Abrahams on Game Face, Match Scripts & Raising Self-Aware Players

In Part 2 of our series with Dan Abrahams, we go deep on practical tools for parents and coaches: game faces, match scripts, divergent questions, and creating mentally resilient players. If you've ever wondered how to truly support your child emotionally on and off the pitch, this episode is your blueprint.

🔑 Key Talking Points

• What a "Game Face" is and why even Premier League stars use them

• The power of match scripts and why three cues are better than ten

• How divergent questioning unlocks player self-awareness

• Why creativity, emotion, and reflection are critical in sport development

• The neuroscience behind confidence and performance

📌 Tune in to learn

How to use simple psychological tools to help your child take ownership of their performance—and fall in love with the process.

💬 Quotes from Dan

• "You can’t think for your child. They have to work it out themselves."

• "The best players in the world construct their own world—why can’t your kid do the same?"

• "Tiger, lion, Terry—metaphors shape how our brains behave. That’s why Game Face works."

• "Divergent questions are how you coach without coaching. It’s how you listen louder."

• "Match scripts are more than mantras—they’re brain hacks for peak focus."

• "The worst thing a parent can do? Be the voice inside their kid’s head they didn’t ask for."

• "You want your child thinking, ‘What does aggressive vocal tiger look like today?’"

• "Confidence is built on cues, not wishes."

• "There’s a reason sports psych is everywhere in the pros—because it works."

• "Mental training isn’t optional—it’s the fourth leg of the performance table."

📲 Connect with Dan Abrahams

📷 Instagram: @danabrahamssport

📘 Facebook: Dan Abrahams Soccer Academy

🌐 Website: www.danabrahams.com

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