The purpose of this article is to encourage you as an athlete to think of what you can do for your coach. All coaches love certain kinds of players. It does not matter whether you are a football player, gymnast, or hockey player, all coaches love specific qualities in athletes. Most players go the way of least resistance and take the easy road to working. Coaching involves making sure the athlete does not think this way, most of the time unsuccessful. So the question is "what can I do for my coach to get more playing time or to be successful?"

First, you need to be self-motivated! Give a total effort every time you compete. Coaches look into what shows up in a player's heart as evidenced by the way he plays. Second, be willing to give the kind of physical and mental effort necessary to win, in practice as well as games. Make it personal excellence time. Third, listen to the meaning of the message from your coach, not how it is said. The next time your coach gets in your face, stand back and listen to the message. Don't make judgments or make it personal. If he didn't care he wouldn't bother. Fourth, think of what your coach wants or needs from you. The basic underlying factor is playing time. Your coach is looking for specific things. It is not what he needs to do for you. Do not lay your hand out for him to give you something. My college coach said, "it is your job to figure out what I want you to do!" He was a very honest man and put it bluntly. Be a coach's player and give instead of take and you will receive your just rewards. Finally, know what your role is. If you don't know, ASK! Most of us like to be the scorer but coaches love great defenders, great rebounders, players who give of themselves and ask nothing in return. There is always room in the line-up for these kinds of players. You are forcing the issue with playing time. You give 100% and he has no choice but to play you because he will notice your effort.

There are three things that your coach would love from you. One, love the game. Convince your coach that this is the important time in your life. Two, WORK HARD! Good things happen to people who work hard to make good things happen. Playing time is conditional based on hard work. You can always offer hard work. Three, be loyal to your coach. Believe in your coach and he will believe in you. Respond positively to challenges from your coach and your opponent. You will grow and develop, win or lose. These challenges will linger in your memory long after the game is over. When your coach gets in your face, he is looking for a positive response. Give him your attention! Great players don't have to be inspired by the coach to get "up" for a game; all you need to know is that any game is important, and how you should play it. Let your coach sit back and enjoy the ride!

Rick Crotts teaches at Cave Spring Junior High School and is assistant varsity boys' basketball coach at Glevar High School, Roanoke County, Virginia