Multi-sport & Recreation Tip
Mastering the Intangibles
Here are five tips on mastering the intangibles - the things that get you noticed by coaches, earn you a starting spot on the field, or a captain's position! These skills are all emphasized at Camp All-Star, the all around sport camp, for any athlete.
1. Be coachable - A coach loves nothing more than to address a certain aspect of a player’s game and see it corrected on the very next try. Some people may naturally be more receptive to direction than others, but being coachable is a skill that can be learned and practiced like any other. For example, be an active listener when your coach is directing you. Make eye contact and nod your head to really show that you understand what they are saying. Furthermore, be able to recognize your own mistakes. After taking direction from a coach, recognize what you are doing wrong and what they are trying to help you with. Even if you can’t fix it the first time figure out what you need to do to fix it the second. Lastly, have an open mind. All coaches are different and have their own strategies when it comes to defending and attacking. While you may prefer one to another, honor the strategy of the coach you are currently playing for. This is the only way for a cohesive unit to evolve.
2. Give 100% - Always give one hundred percent in the areas you can control. Some days you will be off- it happens to everyone. Instead of losing all aspects of your game improve in those that you have control over. For example, your work rate. If you are the first one to every ball the accuracy of your touch won’t be as important. Working ahead of everyone is easier than playing catch up after making a mistake. Also, your coaches and teammates will notice your effort and hard work, which are more important than a perfect first touch every time.
3. Compete - Go for that first ball out of the air, or that rebound, ALWAYS! Even if you don’t come out with the ball every time coaches want to see you going up for every ball. Regardless of the skill of the team you are facing all you can really do when you step out on the field is be competitive. Work indefatigably while you can and things will fall in your favor. Coaches will notice you, teammates will follow you, and you will be proud of your own successes.
4. Be physical - learn how to use your body as a tool now, regardless of size or speed. I’ve been able to improve my physicality by staying low and grounded, not letting anyone push me over easily to get to that ball before I can.
5. Play with energy - Energy is contagious on the field. Energy will also get you noticed. Once one player starts playing with a stronger skip in their step the others will follow. Nothing is worse than a slow game full of ball watching and silence. Communicate constantly and constructively with your teammates and be the first to every ball. Everyone else will follow creating an environment fit for competition.