How to Impress Your Coach and Be a Better Teammate

Co-authored by Walter Merino and Janice Tieperman

Last Updated: August 25, 2021 References

Maybe you’re preparing for a try-out, or just getting ready for the big game. While you don’t want to stay on the bench, you also don’t want to seem like a coach’s pet. Try not to worry. When it comes to impressing your coach, actions tend to speak louder than words. Thankfully, we’ve put together plenty of tips that can help you stand out in the best way possible.

Method 1

Method 1 of 10:
Arrive early and stay late.

0

7

1
Your coach will appreciate you going the extra mile. Try to show up before your teammates, and get an extra warm-up in. If you arrive early enough, you might even get some one-on-one time with your coach.^{[1]
X
Research source} Then, offer to help organize and put away any equipment at the end of practice.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Showing up late and/or skipping practice definitely won’t score you any points with your coach. If you run into any scheduling conflicts, tell your coach as soon as possible.
Advertisement

Method 2

Method 2 of 10:
Bring everything you need with you.

0

7

1
You can’t do your best if you’ve left some of your equipment at home. Instead, think of your practice like a class at school. Your teacher wouldn’t be too impressed if you strolled into class without any school supplies or books, right? The same logic applies to your coach, too. Before heading off to practice, make sure you have all the necessary equipment and supplies so you can put your best foot forward at practice.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- For instance, you might bring a water bottle, shin guards, and a lacrosse stick to your lacrosse practice.
- If you’re heading to swim practice, you’ll probably pack a mesh bag, swim cap, goggles, water bottle, and shoes for when you’re out of the pool.

Method 3

Method 3 of 10:
Pay close attention when your coach talks.

0

9

1
Make eye contact so the coach knows that you’re listening. Being a hard-working, impressive player isn’t just about what you bring on the field. It’s also about how you behave off the field, and how you respond to direction. Whenever your coach talks to you and/or the rest of the team, make an effort to really listen and pay attention.^{[4]
X
Research source}
- Asking thoughtful questions is another great way to show that you’re paying attention.
Advertisement

Method 4

Method 4 of 10:
Ask for feedback.

1

3

1
Your coach wants to help you improve. When you ask them for advice and feedback, you’re showing a desire to actively get better. With any luck, your coach might even keep these conversations in mind when they prepare the roster for the next game.^{[5]
X
Research source}
- You might say, “I’m trying to improve my defensive game, but I keep coming up short. Do you have any advice?” or “Are there any specific skills I should focus on during the next practice?”

Method 5

Method 5 of 10:
Apply your coach’s suggestions on the field.

0

2

1
Your coach will notice the efforts you’re taking to improve. Commit your coach’s feedback to memory, and try to build on it during practice. When the opportunity knocks, show off your new and improved skills. Your coach will be impressed at your work ethic, as well as your drive to succeed.^{[6]
X
Expert Source

Walter Merino
Soccer Coach
Expert Interview. 29 January 2020.}^{[7]
X
Research source}

Advertisement

Method 6

Method 6 of 10:
Take the initiative.

0

4

1
Volunteer to go first in different activities. Even if you aren’t flawless at each drill, your coach will appreciate the energy and initiative you take to be at the front of the line. Plus, you might a chance to do some extra reps, too.^{[8]
X
Research source}

Method 7

Method 7 of 10:
Try again if you make a mistake.

0

10

1
Every athlete makes mistakes at one point or another. It’s not the mistake that your coach will notice—it’s how you react afterward that matters. If you mess up, get right back to it and try again. With enough practice and effort, you can correct and learn from your mistake in future plays and matches.^{[9]
X
Research source}

Advertisement

Method 8

Method 8 of 10:
Be a team player.

0

10

1
Don’t just play for yourself. It feels great to score for your team, but it isn’t the full picture. Instead, focus on making plays that benefit the entire team. Believe it or not, coaches appreciate athletes who play for their teammates instead of themselves.^{[10]
X
Research source}
- For example, you could root for your teammates while you’re on the sidelines, or volunteer to carry equipment out to the field.^{[11]
  X
  Research source}

Method 9

Method 9 of 10:
Care for your equipment.

0

7

1
Your equipment can reveal a lot about you as a player. Before each game and practice, take some time to clean up your equipment, whether it’s a field hockey stick or a pair of cleats. Clean, well-maintained equipment is much more impressive than muddy, smelly items.^{[12]
X
Research source}

Advertisement

Method 10

Method 10 of 10:
Push yourself in practice.

0

10

1
Hard-working, determined players are more likely to stand out. Always give 110% throughout practice, whether you’re scrimmaging, running drills, or doing some other activity. If you give your all, your coach is sure to take notice.^{[13]
X
Expert Source

Walter Merino
Soccer Coach
Expert Interview. 29 January 2020.}^{[14]
X
Research source}