| The purpose of this research was to explore the phenomenon of peak experience in team sports and show how this subjective experience is different from peak performance and flow, phenomena commonly confused with peak experience. The investigation of peak experience in team sports could contribute to a better appreciation of the role of the sport psychologist. The student researcher interviewed 10 individuals who were at least 19 years old and played competitive team sports at any level of competition (recreational, intercollegiate, or international) to gather detailed information about their subjective personal experiences of peaking while performing in sports. A thematic analysis revealed eight main themes: Connection, Rich Perception of Inner Self, Unification with the Object of Play, Experience of Awe andWonder, Feeling of Being in Control of the Situation, Spatio-Temporal Disorientation, Contribution of Meaning to One`s Life, and Loss of Conscious Self or Effortlessness. |
