The coach is not in it for money, but for the love of the game and teaching it to others. They're not "just in it to win." Coaches enjoy winning more than losing; yet, my most enjoyable time was not the year I had the most wins, but when I was motivated by the love of the game and the opportunity to have fun.
Would you have fun if you coached players that were constantly causing problems and disrespectful? I impress on my team at the start of the season, "If your coach has fun you will too!"
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: This is something you must do constantly on and off the court.
Here's How:
- Personally set a goal to be the first one in the gym before every practice or game. - Coaches love it when their players get in the gym early, and those who straggle in "just on time" or a few minutes late impress no coach.
- Always volunteer to help set up the nets or sweep the floor. If these tasks are done, start warming up early. - Your coach has many important jobs to take care of every day for your team. Do not make them waste time doing things you can do for them - they will greatly appreciate it!
- Always greet your coach with a cheerful smile. - Does it not give you a good feeling when you are welcomed pleasantly? Your coach is no different. "Treat others as you want them to treat you."
- Always run everywhere in the gym during practice. When the team is called together, set a goal to be the first one over to the coach each time. - All coaches love hustle and enthusiasm and hate the opposite.
- Always look directly at your coach when they are speaking. - This shows respect and an eagerness to listen, learn, and cooperate.
- Never talk when your coach is speaking. - This is very disrespectful and no one enjoys being "dissed." Besides, how can you possibly be listening if you are talking yourself?
- Make every effort to do what the coach is asking for at all times. - That is all any coach expects of their players- to do their best.
- Never question the correctness of your coach’s instructions or strategy in front of others. - This is usually viewed as being disrespectful and puts your coach on the defensive in front of everyone. Nothing good can come of this.
- If you do have a question, respectfully ask the coach one-on-one during a break or after practice. - You will get a much better response to your inquiry and the coach will appreciate your approach to the situation.
- Learn what your coach likes to talk about besides volleyball and make an effort to chat a little when appropriate. - Everyone likes it when others show an interest in what they enjoy.
Tips:
- I am sure some players will respond to these ideas by saying, "Why should I help my coach help me? I'm already working hard - and besides -it’s their job to help me!" That is very true. What everyone must realize is people work harder at any task or job when they are enjoying themselves doing so. This is just human nature.
- Do the "little things" suggested above and see for yourself if your coach doesn't start having more fun working with you and your team, and thus start doing "those extra things" the whole team really appreciates. Then watch as you find yourself and the others putting out that extra effort consistently, playing not only harder but better, and enjoying it! In addition, you will be learning a set of behaviors all "true athletes" possess and use on a daily basis.