I’ve had the opportunity to work with and be around many great athletes and competitors. Regardless of the sport, I’ve been able to observe a few little things that separate the really good players and teammates from the great ones.
Great players take their craft seriously, but don’t take themselves too seriously. The great players seem to have fun while putting themselves through a grueling workout or practice session. They take advantage of every opportunity to get better, whether it’s a warm-up, practice session or game. They are always giving great effort.
Great players possess that little extra energy that the good players lack. It’s the great player who is the first in line for a drill or the first to come out to the field for a practice session. Everything they do is at optimum speed for that particular drill, setting the standard for the others to follow.
Great players prepare. Not only are the most prepared to play a game, but they are the most prepared to have a great practice or training session. While the good players show up just before practice and start to warm up their bodies, the great players are ready to get on the field and work when practice starts because they prepared their bodies in advance of the scheduled practice time. The great players have already self assessed their weaknesses and strengths and come prepared to take the next step.
Great players are active listeners. While its important to learn to filter advice when you get it from so many different directions, the great players have already identified who they trust and are willing to take constructive criticism from. When a coach or trainer is offering them help or suggestions, the great players are soaking it all in and will ask questions if they don’t understand something.
Great players are aware of their teammates and the first to offer encouragement when its needed. They are also willing to hold their teammates accountable and push their teammates to achieve more. Simply put, great players possess great attitudes.
