Years ago at Fenway (from a front row, third base-side seat!) I heard first base coach Dave Parker walk by and yell at Jim Leyritz (coming up to bat), "Do something." Having a 6'5" behemoth yell encouragement didn't help.
An important question for players and coaches to address is:
“What does this behavior hope to accomplish?”
Rude, insulting, or passive-aggressive behavior seldom accomplishes the desired intent. "I knew that you'd eventually take a good shot," won't endear you to a player.
Better communication connects better: separate the person from the problem. Instead of labeling the athlete as lazy, selfish, or negative, ask "what's your why? What are you looking for from this?" That creates more room for change as coaches seek to change behaviors.
Coaches want to raise player and team performance. Understanding their motivation might open a pathway.
Does a player understand we're on her side?
Does a player understand their position on the performance to potential continuum?
Does a player know her strengths, weaknesses, and chance to add value?
By the time the player's "at bat" it's too late. Exceptional players want coaching and have already come for it. They know the difference.
Lagniappe. Approval requires somebody else to complete the transaction. Contribution doesn't. Control whether you add value in domain expertise; we don't control who reads or appreciates it. Good work stands on its own.
Lagniappe 2. Offense is spacing. Defense contracts and corrupts spacing.
View on Threads
