Professionalism is measured in the “minor leagues of life.” If you can’t take small assignments seriously, you won’t suddenly rise to excellence in the spotlight.
We know professionalism when we see it. Left fielder B.J. Surhoff backed up a throw from right field to third base in the eighth inning of a meaningless blowout at Fenway Park in game 161. Both the Orioles and the Red Sox were playing out the string. Nobody would have noticed if he hadn't. Professionalism means doing what is expected when nobody watches.
Pre-adolescents can be professional.
- Show up on time.
- Be mentally and physically prepared.
- Have spare gear or medication if needed.
- Have water and/or a sports drink with you.
- Bring full attention.
- Energize yourself and teammates.
- Be the hardest worker.
Example. After a hard loss, one player sought to take responsibility for a loss. Her teammate said, "No. We win as a team and we lose as a team." Empathy is professional.
Coaches can be professional.
- Develop a practice schedule, ideally written.
- Study the game.
- Work on teaching methods - teaching eye contact and focus, call and response, the Socratic Method of questioning.
- Treat players and families with respect.
- Set clear expectations.
Example. Years ago at a parent meeting, a parent complained about a lack of teaching. Another mother spoke, "I'm at every practice. There is a lot of teaching. There may not be enough listening."
Officials can be professional.
- Communicate calls clearly.
- Understand that players care.
- Keep players safe.
- Respect players and coaches and give your best effort.
Example. I recently attended a game (not basketball) where one team clearly committed a violation that impacted the outcome. The opposing coach asked the official why the correct call was not made. The official told the coach, that they didn't want that call to decide the outcome. Players were visibly upset after the close contest. Players' feelings don't come as JV or varsity emotion.
Professionalism isn’t about age, status, or paycheck. It’s about attitude, preparation, and respect. We know it when we see it — and others are always watching, whether we notice or not.
Lagniappe. Here's a quote from Michael Connelly's Nightshade. "It was called If I’d Known Then. Tash told him it was a collection of letters women in their twenties and thirties had written to their younger selves." What would you tell a younger player or coach version of yourself that would make a difference.
Lagniappe 2. Ask players what makes a good defender.
The best defenders:
— Coach Mac 🏀 (@BballCoachMac) July 28, 2025
1. Know the shooters
2. Box out
3. Contest shots
4. Pressure the ball
5. Get deflections
6. Talk
