Posted on October 1, 2010: Addressing Skill Level and Negativity
A Responsible Sports Fan suggested the following Scenario Question:
How do you tell kids that they are not skilled enough to play on your team, or tell them to go away because of a negative attitude?
Dear Gary,
Let me answer what I think are two different questions you have: 1) You ask how to “tell kids they are not skilled enough to play on your team.” I’d turn this around and tell them what skills they need to develop to be considered for your team. Try to be as specific as possible. This might sound something like, “On this traveling team speed on the base paths is very important. If you want to try out for this team again, work on getting out of the batter’s box more quickly and efficiency rounding the bases.” Giving this sort of detailed feedback will help them become a better player, even if they are never destined to play on your team. They also might hear this feedback better if you can couple it with a few things they do well: “You slap the ball really consistently, and you’ve got a really strong throw in from outfield. Now I’ve just got to see more speed if you really want to make this team in the future.”
As for the second question about negative attitude, I think you need to address this head on and give the players a chance to correct this. Let them know their attitude is jeopardizing their place on the team, and let them know what you need to see from them. Using the metaphor of “filling the emotional tank” might help. Let them know you want a team of “tank fillers,” as that creates an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone, and sets the team up to perform to its highest potential.
For more, please visit the Responsible Coaching guide.
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For more, please visit the Responsible Coaching Guide.
Learn more now!
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