Recently I had the honor of giving an impromptu racquetball clinic to a group of high school kids. It was a great group of kids and fun coaching them up! But I asked them all a question none of them could answer. I get this blank look from racquetball team members always on this one question.
Why does your coach work for you?
Answers I usually get–“So I can win.” or “So I can get better” or “so the team will win.
Nobody gets the real reason. The coach likes you. The coach wants you to do well in racquetball and more importantly, in life!
Most coaches are not in this for money.
A true coach is in this for the kids that they coach! They want those athletes to do well in racquetball but the quest for excellence gives one the skills for success in life.
The thought that the coach really likes the kids is something most youngsters do not even think about. Liking your athletes does not mean doing what makes them happy, but doing what makes them a better person.
I have several racquetball sons and daughters. I think they all know I think the world of them. That bond allows me to have a challenging conversation with them as well. If they have more to give and they are not giving it their all–I am not happy.
If they are not giving it their 100% effort due to school, work. or personal demands, of course I am understanding, but not accepting it.
What is best for the athlete comes first.
One other question the athletes have trouble answering. “If you do not practice, who are you hurting?”
Usual answer-“Myself”.
Correct answer–the school or group or country you represent first, your family name second, your team third and yourself last. Remember that!