Competition has forever been at the heart of sports. Athletes compete to find out who is the best on any given day. It’s why we play the game…or is it? We have drifted far from the true meaning of competition. As a result, our society suffers greatly as we continuously compare ourselves to others. We believe we will never be good enough. What if we have competition all wrong?
Everyone loves a good Cinderella story. However, the Cinderella of fairy tales wasn’t an underdog. She was only counted out by those who stood to gain from holding her back. Cinderella was a victim of circumstance. Once set free she soared, stole the show, and ran off with her prize. What can your team learn about fulfilling their own Cinderella story?
A team’s culture shapes their common language. We outwork the competition. Always compete. Losing only happens when you give up. Team first. These statements are indicators of what a team values most, of what they hang their hat on. What does your team’s language say about the team?
Olympic athletes are supported by a team of sport psychology professionals devoted to helping them be mentally prepared for the demands of Olympic competition. At this level, every detail matters. The difference between Gold and missing the medal stand can be fractions of a second. The slightest loss of focus, moment of hesitation, or being a little too anxious can make a huge difference. Without question, Olympic athletes must be mentally tough.
Right or wrong, athletes tie their identities to being athletes. What kind of athletes do they see themselves as? Champions? Fighters? Head cases? Chokers? How an athlete views him or herself has wide-reaching effects on his or her identity.
Sven-Goran Eriksson is one of soccer’s best managers. Over four decades he’s learned that, “The greatest barrier to success is the fear of failure.” Keep your athletes from succumbing to fear by teaching them to funnel their fear into high performance.
Michelangelo warned us, “The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.” How can coaches keep their athletes from falling into this trap, from falling short of their potential.
Everyone appreciates a “class act.” The term is synonymous with athletes who demonstrate sportsmanship and respect toward their teammates and opponents. It is a reflection of their character. What coach doesn’t want a roster filled with class act athletes?
The great Vince Lombardi said, “Winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing.” One issue with this is that winning is never guaranteed. That’s why we play the game. It turns out that celebrating and showcasing your team’s past accomplishments could be detrimental to this season’s efforts.
Championship teams rely on having team leaders in the locker room. However, athletes on the team have to earn the right to lead their teammates. It starts with leading themselves. Leading yourself begins with developing character.
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