The Winning Edge for Athletes

Jim Kielbaso, MS, CSCS

How To Be A Better Team Player

Encourage your teammates. Knowing that your teammates are supporting you builds confidence.

Be productive even when not in a drill. Pay attention to what your teammates are doing, so you

can learn from them or help them play better. Be willing to shag balls, get teammates a drink or do whatever is necessary to help the team.

Set a good example and be a hard worker. Intensity is contagious. Be the player that lights the fire.

Actively participate in matches, even when on the bench. Look for tendencies and weaknesses of

your opponent, provide positive feedback and support teammates.

Always do more than is expected of you. If you want to become the best player possible, take the time

to work on your weaknesses outside of practice, and encourage your teammates to join you.

Take Responsibility For Yourself

When you make a commitment to a team you must uphold your responsibility.

Manage your time well and do not spread yourself too thin.

Always make your teammates look good. If your teammate messes up, try to cover up the mistake by giving a little extra effort to make a great play. Your teammates will appreciate this and consequently want to work hard to help you.

Never give up, and hustle all the time. If your team sees you giving 100% effort, they are likely to join you in the fight.

Go for every ball, hustle is contagious.

When things aren't going as well as planned, don't blame others. Even if you do not think it was your fault, ask yourself what you can do to change the situation.

Communicate With Your Teammates

Always be positive. Athletes have enough reason to doubt themselves. Don't add to a teammate's anxiety by getting down on them.

Non verbal communication makes a difference. Give a high five, or pat on the back. Never hang your head.

After a teammate makes an error, give them support so they have the confidence to make the play the next time.

Wait for the proper time to bring up something with a teammate. Don't criticize a teammate in front of the team.

Help your teammates improve. If you notice a teammate making a mistake, don't let them continue to struggle. Find a positive way to help him/her play better.

 

Communicate With Your Coach

Discuss conflicts with your coach. Ask questions and take answers as well as criticism openly.

Never talk back to your coach. Remember that the coach is always trying to make you better.

Always ask questions if you do not understand a concept.

Relay your feelings to the coach, so he/she has a chance to modify the situation.
 

Always try to listen to what the coach says, not how he/she says it. While the coach is always trying to help, they may not always say things the way you would like to hear them.