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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3/30/26)

"Promoting Education Based Athletics in Indiana"

I am often asked what it takes to become an elite athlete in a sport.  It never comes down to one or two things-it's just not that simple.

Depending upon the sport, there are certain things that stand out.  Strength, speed, quickness, size, knowledge and heart are just a few I would mention.  There is one aspect of student-athletes that I believe may be the most under-rated.

Are you willing to take instruction?  For me, this is the basis of all your learning.  Regardless of your sport, you will spend more time practicing than you will spend competing.  Your coach is constantly teaching during practice, so it is so important that you take their direction and knowledge to heart and put it to use.

Will you always agree with your coach?  Probably not, but the more you work on the things that your coach is demanding, the closer you will become to achieving those things that he/she wants!

Your talents are important, but you can become more skilled over time as you take a coach's instruction and learn to put it to use when it really counts!

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