A Champion Athlete's Aura: Tips for Student-Athletes

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Laura_Mitchell]Laura Mitchell

5 Ways to Have the Aura of a Champion Athlete

Varsity teams and even JV teams are becoming increasingly harder to make. For some student-athletes, getting cut as a freshman often means they stop playing their sport for good. Players sometimes make small mistakes that keep them off of a team, or maybe they don't dedicate themselves or play hard enough. From an insider's view -- follow these things to increase your chances of standing out as a special player to your coach at tryouts - and in practices and games -- and when a college coach comes to see you play.

1. Nod. Yes, it's this simple. When your coach is speaking nod gently once in awhile to let them know you are listening. This secret will work in the classroom too - or in a large group setting. Speakers will make more eye contact with the nodding person in the group. Try it. You'll see.

2. Make eye contact with your coach. Often, young players have wandering eyes when people speak to them. Be respectful and attentive. Look coach in the eye to connect with what they say.

3. Refuse to make an excuse. Players make excuses for so much stuff. Make it to practice. Make it to practice on time. Bring your shoes, your helmet, your pads, your hair tie - or whatever it is. Just bring it! And then BRING IT!

4. Be COACHABLE, and be a sponge. When your coach tells you how to correct a mistake or how to improve forget about saying BUT I...or I thought. Simply say okay coach, Thank you, or I've got it. Next time.

5. Focus. Make a conscious decision before each practice and game that you want to be there and tell yourself you will give it your all. Literally, say out loud or in your head "I am committed to doing my best during practice, or "For this game I will fully inspire my teammates and play my best and play to win." If you have time, write this down. You will be amazed at the power of writing down your intentions.

Author Laura Mitchell is a former NCAA Head College Basketball Coach, NCAA two-sport athlete, and High School Volleyball and Basketball Coach. Mitchell was also an outreach academic counselor for the University of California's Central Section. She is the CEO of Sports Dreammakers and the college sports counselor for America's largest charter school. Mitchell travels the country offering her workshops and seminars to student-athletes and parents who seek information about how to make their dream of playing college sports a reality. For more info visit http://www.athleticinspiration.com