Other sports teach us a lot about identity. Branded cheaters, the Astros revisit the ALCS for the third year in the past four. On Sunday Night Football, the Vikings depart their running game and Seattle turns the game around. Rugby's All-Blacks dynasty preaches, "leave the jersey in a better place."
"This is who we are. That is who we are not."
When our local high school girls' team won ten consecutive league titles, another league coach told me, "they put so much pressure on you with five skilled girls running."
Identity grows in a culture blending freedom and discipline and with team goals transcending individual agendas.
The Heat didn't win a championship but showed their identity of toughness and persistence despite injuries. Strong teams play harder for longer than most opponents.
Identity extends off the court. Model excellence in all things - family, sports, academics, career.
If you are unhappy with your minutes or role, take initiative to soar not be sore.
In "Ten Minute Toughness" Jason Selk advises an identity statement as part of his pre-game routine. "I am a prepared, resilient, and tough player. Focus on the process and let the results speak for themselves."Players extend this attitude with their daily routine and habits. Who are we?
Coaching Identity. How do coaches construct and modify identity? My daughters' AAU coach, Shawanda Brown set high expectations.
- "Don't back down (defensively)."
- At a hint of selfishness, she reminded a player, "that is not how we play."
- Foster competitiveness and toughness. She brought in boys for scrimmages.
We often hear coaches say, "we got away from playing (team name) basketball." Restated, we lost our identity.
"This is who we are" asserts philosophy, culture, and identity.
Lagniappe: Spurs use a variation off a zipper cut to set up multiple actions.