Why Do Your Athletes Show Up Every Day?

Why Do Your Athletes Show Up Every Day?

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Team tent flying away
The first thing I try to do at practice is figure out why someone is on the team. What makes them want to throw? If you know why they are there, you can figure out the best way to coach them. 


This year I have three people who joined because they really enjoy throwing. Another individual joined because they love sports no matter what it is; and happen to enjoy hammer.

“Athlete 1” just wants to improve. These guys are easy. They'll show up daily and work hard. Even if they feel you are not doing a good job as a coach, they will listen to everything. They want to get better but don't really care about being the best. They enjoy being there and pushing themselves. They won't check their placement, but they know their PRs by heart. Push them hard, get them their precious PRs and they'll love you.

“Athlete 2” loves what they are doing, but wants to do it right. They show up just because its fun and they love the challenge. The problem is that sometimes they get a little harsh. They know what they need to do, but have trouble executing it, causing them frustration. If allowed to run wild “Athlete 2” can really beat him/herself up which will only lead to worst performances. Try to help this character relax and get back to enjoying the event, rather than going nuts over the distance.

“Athlete 3” is the one who wants 1st place even though he isn't there yet. If something is off they go into full meltdown. I know Britney Henry would talk about how if something was slightly off, she would breakdown in tears. I have an athlete who isn't to that point, but might as well. His progress is through the roof and despite doing well, to him it's all about the here and now. If the goal is 60m they don't want to waste time at 55m. This person needs someone to keep them focused on the positive and the game plan, rather than letting them fixate on every bad throw. One bad throw can easily turn into a bad week.

“Athlete 4” doesn't care what sport as long as they are involved in something. They are never casual players. If they were they would do intramurals, but they want a challenge and want to do well. Usually they accept they can't win something they just started, but they sure as hell won't be happy taking last place. My experience with them is either they implode or explode. By implode I mean they completely break down, getting so angry that they can't focus. By explode I mean they end up going out and doing amazing. They focus harder and put every ounce of energy into making that stupid ball go as far as they can. Push them towards focuses and exploding a throw out rather than imploding and destroying their chances.

I will preach this forever…Everyone is different. You need to learn your athletes inside and out to figure out the best way to coach them. You can't expect them to adjust to you because their motives are different. I want only national champions, but that means making Athlete 1 feel separated from my plan. 


You'll be amazed at how well people respond if they think you are on the same wave length as they are.

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