IN sporting rivalries, whether they are individual or team, there are sometimes impediments that stand in the way of those involved and those factors, whether internal or external, can determine if a team or individual is successful, the difference between winning and losing.

One of the main factors that contributes to success is the team's mental strength. Over the past two years at the ISSA Boys and Girls' Championships a prime example has been Edwin Allen failing to win the title because of mental weaknesse's, after being tipped as hot favourites to do so.

Edwin have failed to stop the winning streak of Holmwood Technical, as the young ladies from Christiana have proven that they are much better mentally prepared. For those two years, undoubtedly Edwin have been the stronger team, but they are yet to pass the winning post in front. Coach Michael Dyke, who has been at the helm for years, will be hoping that his team can overcome that mental barrier this time around as Edwin are once again favourites.

Although most pundits are agreeing this time around that it is Edwin Allen's year to win the title, most are doing so with reservation. Many fans also remain cautious as despite their exceptional talent, Edwin do not know how to win, while Holmwood have proven year after year that they are winners.

Who can forget last year when on the opening day of Champs all went to pieces for the Dyke-coached team. Despite being very dominant this season, things look to be the same as in the latter days leading to Champs last year. At the Gibson Relays their baton passes were atrocious, twice they failed to finish in the events they were favourites to win, especially in the Class II 4x100 metres relays, where they were expected to do something special. If that was not enough their repeat at the Central Championships, some two weeks ago, where both relay teams failed once again to finish, is cause for concern.

Edwin's problem is nothing new in sports. In tennis we see where Roger Federer is having a problem beating Rafael Nadal and he is in turn having a problem in stopping Novak Djokovic. We also see where in football Real Madrid have problems beating Barcelona.

There are many more situations like that and although players and teams are evenly matched it could be the mental factor which makes the difference.

Despite going into Champs as one of the biggest favourites this year, Edwin Allen will be wary of a Holmwood, which will not give up until the final event, and they will have to overcome their biggest fear which is a mental one.