This study investigated the relationship between imagery function and individual perceptions of collective efficacy as a function of skill level. Elite (n = 70) and non elite (n = 71) athletes from a number of interactive team sports completed the Sport Imagery Questionnaire (SIQ) and the Collective Efficacy Inventory (CEI). Multiple hierarchical regression analysis was then used to examine which SIQ sub-scales predicted individual perceptions of collective efficacy. For the elite sample, Motivational General-Mastery (MG-M) imagery accounted for approximately 17% of the variance in collective efficacy scores. No significant predictions were observed in the non elite sample. The findings suggest MG-M imagery as a potential technique to improve levels of collective efficacy although competitive level may moderate the effectiveness of such interventions.

• As imagery is an individual intervention, an examination of individual perceptions of collective efficacy was most appropriate.

• Elite athletes who use more MG-M imagery also have higher individual perceptions of collective efficacy.

• For non-elite athletes, none of the imagery functions tested predicted individual perceptions of collective efficacy.

• Performance accomplishments provided by MG-M imagery may increase individual perceptions of collective efficacy.

• Future research should investigate further the effects of imagery intervention programmes on collective efficacy beliefs.