Batman/Coach effect!

The Batman Effect comes from a study in npj Mental Health Research titled “The Batman Effect: Unpredictable Events Enhance Prosocial Behavior,” and it captures something coaches regularly create at big tournaments. When Batman appeared on the Milan subway, people behaved better. They offered seats more often, paid more attention to others and helped keep the environment fair. Many didn’t even realise he was there. The atmosphere shifted and behaviour followed.

A coach at the US Junior Open has a similar influence.

Their presence steadies players in a high-pressure setting. Athletes stay calmer, manage nerves more effectively and handle stressful moments without letting emotion take over. They treat opponents and officials with more fairness, and they take setbacks in stride instead of spiralling. The coach’s presence helps maintain a healthier environment on and off court.

Then there is the tactical work. Coaches help players make adjustments, recognise patterns and stick to a coherent plan. They cut through the noise and keep the player focused on strategic choices rather than panic or frustration. Better tactics and better behaviour tend to rise together.

The Batman study shows that consistent guiding forces can quietly lift prosocial behaviour. In squash, good coaching does the same. It creates a setting where players think clearly, act fairly and give themselves the best chance to compete well in the biggest tournament of the year.