In 2009 Natalie was accepted into Staffordshire University to study an MSc in Sport and Exercise Psychology.
Natalie’s main motivation to further her academic education was to improve her knowledge and skills as a competitor and international coach.
Natalie chosen subject was unique, a first in the sport. She was assisted by the Dutch, German and English federations and all their squad and Olympic riders – 85 participants in total.
The study tested the Theory of Challenge and Threat States in Athletes (TCTSA; Jones, Meijen, McCarthy & Sheffield, 2009), examining the psychological skills use in elite equestrian dressage riders from the three leading nations.
Measuring self-efficacy, perceived control, goal orientation, emotions and psychological skills use prior to important competitions, Natalie’s work presented significant findings, which led to the award of a Master of Science with Merit for the final paper.
