An Exploratory Study of the Effects of Pregame Speeches on Team Efficacy Beliefs¹

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of pregame speeches on team efficacy. Male ( n =45) and female ( n =45) soccer players were presented with descriptions of two teams who were to play in an imagined soccer competition. Participants were asked to imagine themselves as being a member of team B. After reviewing team descriptions, participants listened to one of three randomly assigned pregame speeches. Speeches contained one of three themes: (a) uniform/field information that acted as a control, (b) strategic information, and (c) an emotionally persuasive plea. Results indicated that those exposed to the persuasive pregame speech reported significantly greater team efficacy beliefs. The control and strategy groups did not differ in team efficacy. Gender differences were also found.