In my work, I have come across all types of student-athletes. They play various sports: soccer, basketball, tennis, volleyball, baseball, etc. from middle school to the collegiate level. In observing all these student-athletes, I have compiled a brief list of what makes some successful even if they don’t have the most talent and what causes some to never reach their potential.
1. Do What The Coach Asks You to Do
I’ll preface this by saying as long as it is morally, ethically within the rules. Finding what what the coach wants and expects and then doing it goes along way toward success. Athletes are not always going to agree with what coaches say, drills they run, how they operate practices, rules the enforce, game decisions they make, etc but it is not the athletes’ job to waste time questioning the coaches’ decision. Success athletes follow the rules and instructions of their coaches and have faith that even if they don’t understand why that the coach has their reasons. “Just Do It”
2. Do Extra
Everyone practices 1:30-3:00 hours each day. Every team does some form of conditioning. If you are only doing what is required you are only improving at the rate that the majority of other athletes are. If you want to be the best you can, you have to do extra. Extra shooting, ball handling, hitting, batting- whatever the skill of your sport. Watch game film and observe yourself in action. Continue to learn and grow. Don’t depend on just practice.
3. Get in Shape
Too many athletes see their seasons and even careers cut short due to injuries. Getting in shape dramatically reduces injuries and the effect of injuries. In addition, if you are in top shape, it gives you an extra mental advantage and strength.
4. Be a Good Teammate
Be that teammate that others trust and want beside them in battle. Do the extras for them, be loyal, be honest, etc. Make those around you better. As Magic Johnson best said it, “Ask not what your teammates can do for you. Ask what you can do for your teammates.”
5. Develop Relationships With Your Coaches
Often athletes especially younger ones, don’t know how to communicate with their coaches. They expect their coaches to make the effort in developing relationships. But coaches have entire team to account for so. Take the initiative. Stop by their office each day even if its to say hello. Ask about their family. Get to know them. It will help you on and off the court.
6. Ask Questions
You never want to seem like you are challenging a coach with your questions but asking questions so you understand something is important. If you are unsure, ask. Make sure you are on the same page as your coaches in all aspects.
7. Keep Your Thoughts Positive and/or Productive
It is easy to find the negative in each situation- from drills run in practice, to coaches getting on you, to where you eat as a team and so on. Everyone can find the negative. But how successful and fun is that? Instead challenge yourself to find the positive in all situations. Or be productive. Use your brain to find productive ways to get through the negatives.
8. Be Real
Don’t be a “yes ma’am” or “yes sir” to coaches to their face and a backstabber to their back. The same
with teammates. Be real. Your teammates may laugh at you or think you are funny but at the same time if they were honest they would admit they lose respect for you when you act that way. And if they don’t lose respect and join in, then all you have done is create more distrust and negativity in your team.
9. Have Fun
Take practices and competitions seriously but at the end of the day remember it is a game and how blessed you are to be able to play the sport you love. Smile and enjoy your sport and your team.
10 Don’t Take Sports For Granted
Your career flies by. Don’t take it for granted. Seize the moment, make the most of everyday and create memories that you will have forever.
If you can take these 10 suggestions and apply them, I guarantee your experience will be much more rewarding. Best of Luck!