My Life is Vital™ - Discover How Your Coach Can Help You Win

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Discover How Your Coach Can Help You Win

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Getting ready to play school sports? Being part of middle school or high school athletics is important. Still, no matter if you play high school football, basketball or other sport, the most important player on your team is your coach. Your coach can train you to be your very best—no matter how much experience you have on the playing field, court, or in the pool.

How to talk to your coach

Talking to your coach can be a tough! Sometimes you may feel intimidated, especially if you are new on the team. Yet by talking to your coach, you can learn ways to improve your skills and become a winner at your sport. It’s true; your coach is the one person who can help you win!

When talking to your coach, it’s important to have a positive attitude. And you need to keep a positive attitude—even if you aren’t performing at your best. Here are some tips on how to talk to your coach:

Plan ahead. Try to think of what you’re going to say to your coach ahead of time, so you don’t stumble over your words. Maybe you can practice first on a close friend or your parent. In fact, you can ask another adult for advice in how to talk to your coach, if you’re not sure of what to say.
Break the ice! Ok. Most coaches are really intimidating, but they aren’t mind readers. So, if you don’t communicate, how will your coach know that you’re interested in the game? How can your coach know you want a starting position if you don’t raise your hand? How can your coach help you be a winner if you don’t convey interest?

A great way to break the ice between you and your coach is to -

Ask your coach what you can do to improve your game.
Ask your coach for a suggested workout schedule.
Ask your coach for suggestions in how to improve your speed, strength, agility, or endurance.
Don’t argue. What if your coach says you are slack or you’re not working to your potential? If you disagree with what your coach is saying, don’t argue. Just take what your coach says as good advice, and focus on the suggestions your coach gives you.
Avoid being negative. Sure, we all disagree. And when you’re hot and tired after a good workout, it’s sometimes hard to bite your tongue and keep your opinion to yourself. Still, no matter what your coach tells you, keep your negative comments to yourself. Be respectful and listen.
Be a team player. Stick around after practice as this is a great time to talk informally with your coach. If your coach needs help cleaning up the equipment, then be the first to volunteer and help pick up. That’s called being a team player.

Being a team player is what separates the very best players from the rest. Other ways to be a team player include:
- Arriving on time for practice
- Being prepared to train with the proper attire
- Being well-rested and eating a balanced diet so you feel at the top of your game
- Offer to help others who need additional assistance with a drill or skill.
Don’t get discouraged. If your coach says there’s no time to talk, then don’t feel put down. There will be plenty of opportunities in the weeks ahead. After some time passes, bring up the conversation again.

Remember, your coach sets the playing schedule. If you’re going to work out in the hot sun or get up at 5:00 AM to swim laps, make sure you respect your coach and really listen to your coach.

Your coach holds the key to your athletic future right now. Put on your best behavior and work your hardest. Your coach will notice!

Then when it’s time to ask about being the starter for the next game, your coach can base the decision on facts—and help you to win at your game.