Providing opportunities for her to lead matters. I asked her to address the team briefly before practice and conduct a ten-minute segment of practice I'm calling "Vic's Picks".
She brought in a dog-eared, marked up copy of Jay Bilas' "Toughness." She explained how her volleyball coach required them to read a chapter a week and discuss the meaning. We talked about the "contact paper" embarrassment and she discussed how being tough is an attitude. She noted that it's not enough to be on the floor, it's vital to fully focus and engage during the time you're out there.
Here's a link to a blog with some key messaging from Bilas' book. And here are just a couple of excerpts...
“You can’t get to the top of the ladder in one step, but you can get to the bottom in one step”
Concentrate on what you’re doing while you’re doing it. His dad used that as a lesson to teach his son to concentrate on one thing at a time. Focus on what is before you, not on what is in store for you.
During her drills she emphasized 1) rebounding and 2) 1 on 1 with the added challenge of defensive help.
During the practice, spent about 20 minutes working on zone offense...and several players lined up in the wronged place and clearly didn't understand their or teammate's responsibilities.
I reinforced the message of needing focus and engagement and reminded them that when they get to high school, the coach won't tolerate wandering minds. It will cost players opportunities.
I asked Victoria whether I was being too harsh. She felt that I sent the right message and added that Sam, our player on injured reserve, had told her the same thing.
You play the game as you live your life. If you want a good life, then commitment to preparation, energy, and full engagement are your partners. We're preparing players for life...not just a game on Sunday.