RSU to host its first international conference in sports psychology
For the first time, from 23 – 25 April, Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) will host a scientific and practical conference "Contemporary Sports Psychology: Research, Innovation and Professional Practice", bringing together psychologists, researchers, coaches, athletes, students, and other industry professionals.
The conference will focus on athletes’ psychological preparedness, mental health, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the implementation of evidence-based methods in sports practice. It will serve as a platform for dialogue between research and practice, emphasising the role of sports psychology in the modern sports environment.
Mg. psych. Beate Evelīna Dišlere, RSU doctoral student and conference initiator, highlights that the conference aims to bridge the gap between research and practice: ‘This conference emerged from the idea of bringing researchers, psychologists, coaches, and athletes together to discuss what is actually happening in the sports environment.
It is important for us not only to share the latest research findings, but also to reflect on real-life experiences, mental health, and teamwork. It is an opportunity to strengthen evidence-based approaches in sport and support the healthy and sustainable development of athletes.’
Agenda of the conference
On the first day of the conference, 23 April, the focus will be on the core themes of sports psychology – mental health and the strengths use approach in sport. The day will begin with a lecture on mental health risks and support strategies, followed by a masterclass led by Prof. Charles Martin-Krumm (France) on applying strengths to enhance athletes’ performance and wellbeing.
24 April will be dedicated to sports psychology practice and research in Latvia. Participants will learn about the work of a psychologist at the Paralympic Games, take part in a discussion on collaboration between psychologists, coaches, and athletes, and attend presentations on scientific research, including those by early carrier researchers.
On 25 April, the conference will feature international perspectives. In the plenary session, guest lecturers from Romania will address coaches’ personality dimensions, the role of communication, and the importance of emotional intelligence in sport. The day will conclude with a symposium focused on the practical experience of psychological preparation coaches.
Representatives of sports federations, organisations, and clubs are invited to participate in the conference to learn about the latest approaches in sports psychology, share their experiences, and foster closer collaboration between sports practice and research.
Participation in the conference is free of charge, both in person (at the RSU main building) and online.
Participants will have the opportunity to receive a certificate confirming the number of academic hours completed during the conference.
The conference is implemented within the framework of an Erasmus+ project, in cooperation with the School of Practising Psychologists (École de Psychologues Praticiens, France) and the National University of Physical Education and Sports (Universitatea Națională de Educație Fizică și Sport, Romania).
