For any serious field hockey player, there is a desire to stand out while on the field. In turn, doing so means they’ll also be standing out to the people watching them play – like coaches. There are different situations in which this will impact your field hockey career, but the most important one of all will be to stand out to the adult who coaches your team.
Of all the favorable qualities any young athlete can have, none is better than being coachable and being open to constructive criticism. After all, this is the only real way you can grow and improve within the game in order to ultimately reach your goals, whatever they may be.
Being a great field hockey player takes physical skill and endurance, but it starts with a strong mind. Having a good attitude and being dedicated to always giving your best effort are things coaches will always notice, without fail. Don’t forget that coaches are also passionate – whether it’s about the game itself, winning, or helping their players.
When they can easily see legitimate buy-in from someone who wants to continually get better and get advice from an adult that’s had more experience, they instinctively want to keep helping. Field hockey has already had a profound impact on their lives in one way or another. Lots of times, adults get into coaching because they want to share those life-changing experiences in order for others to get the same impact from it.
Coaches can always spot a player who is mentally strong and one who isn’t. Make sure you constantly show them you’re the former and not the latter.
Another way to stand out to your field hockey coach is to not look for shortcuts and pay attention to the details. Coaches give directions for a reason – they want their players to follow what they say! It’s not hard to be a good listener, follow directions, and not look for the easy way out.
And for those who want to play field hockey at the next level, it’s crucial to realize that your work isn’t just limited to during the season itself – it’s a year-round dedication. Great teams are formed during a field hockey season, but great field hockey players are made in the offseason. This doesn’t mean you should be practicing every single day and not leaving time to have other interests. However, showing up to the first day of practice in good physical shape does two things: it makes the start of practice a lot easier for you, and it shows your coach that you’re taking this seriously.
Actions typically speak louder than words, and this is certainly an instance where that phrase rings true.
Finally, it’s easy for players to move with a purpose when they have the ball, it’s what you do without the ball that’ll really get the attention of coaches. Don’t just jog from place to place – run with a purpose and make sure you’re in the best possible position to be successful during a particular play.
Keep these things in mind and it will be impossible for field hockey coaches to not notice you in between the lines!
