Leadership Beats Talent: How to be a Coachable Athlete
What is Coachability?
Coachability is considered one of the most important skills any athlete can possess. Being coachable refers to an athlete’s attitude. A coachable athlete is one who sincerely and humbly listens to constructive criticism. Coachable athletes willingly apply feedback with intention of improving themselves and their team. These athletes understand that they are not perfect, there is always room to improve, and show appreciation for their coach’s time and feedback by actively listening and learning from them.
Traits of a coachable athlete:
- Leave your ego at the door
- Looking coaches in the eye
- Keep an open-mind receiving feedback
- Willingly implement feedback
- Actively seek feedback from coaches
- Be a source of positivity and encouragement for teammates
- Demonstrate commitment to your progress and team
How to Demonstrate Coachability:
It’s not enough for you to tell coaches that you are coachable, you need to prove it. When coaches are placing teams for the upcoming season they are looking for more than just talent. Coaches like to observe your attitude on and off the mat. Some things they keep track of are how athletes interact with their teammates, opponents, coaching staff, and even parents.
As an athlete, here are a few things you should be conscious of during competitions and practices.
- What is your attitude during practice?
- Are you supportive of your teammates?
- What kind of demeanor do you exhibit when your coach changes your role in the routine?
- Are you still paying attention to the changes in routine even if they do not apply to you?
- Do you look like you’re having fun and displaying proper fundamentals, or are you complaining to other teammates?
Coaches are looking for athletes who listen and are committed, demonstrate passion for their sport, and have a positive impact on their team.
Here are a few opportunities where athletes can demonstrate their coachability:
- Open Gyms, Classes, and Coming in Extra provide athletes an opportunity to show coaches that they’re receptive to learning by listening to feedback and implementing what they learn during their own time.
- Practices and Competitions are common events that which coaches evaluate how athletes interact with their teammates, coaches, competition, and parents.
With tryout season right around the corner make sure to polish up your leadership and coachability skills. No matter your talent level if you aren’t coachable you are not going to be wanted on a team. Cheer is more than just skills it is about building strong athletes and humans. Leadership beats talent any day of the week.
Sources :https://www.ncsasports.org/recruiting/how-to-get-recruited/coachable
