Throughout my education in sport psychology, one of the most profound lessons I’ve carried from the classroom to the field revolves around the pivotal role of setting the tone. The process of mastering the transition into game mode or practice mode is a skill that athletes need time and practice to cultivate. In the context of younger teams, I’ve observed that players often require approximately 30-45 minutes to seamlessly shift— a gradual progression that unfolds throughout the warm-up process. I’ve come to recognize that facilitating this transition can instantly launch them into practice mode as soon as the session commences, substantially enhancing their focus and overall performance.
To begin each practice, I adhere to a consistent routine. As my players arrive, they understand that by the designated start time, all their equipment must be meticulously laid out and ready for action. Gloves, helmets, bats, and water bottles are arranged in a creative design of their choosing, a pattern that remains consistent. After arranging their gear, they gather for a pre-practice huddle, a routine I explicitly taught them. This emphasis on teaching is vital; I clearly laid out this expectation at the start of the season, engaging in discussions and practical exercises to ensure comprehension. These routines must be cultivated, not assumed.
Within our huddle, I initiate a dialogue about their week. Often, they share stories about school, homework, friendships, and occasionally respond with a unanimous “good.” This exchange reflects my belief in the importance of caring for their lives beyond the softball field, valuing their holistic well-being rather than just their performance in the game.
Subsequently, I outline my practice expectations, which remain largely consistent. I communicate, “When I’m out here with you, I am giving you 100% of my effort for 2 hours. This is my time that I’m devoting to you. I expect the same from you. I expect 100% effort while you are out here on our field. I don’t care if you miss a ball or swing and miss at a pitch. What I care about is how you react afterward. I expect you to keep your head up and hustle after the ball you missed. I expect you to bounce back and try just as hard for the next pitch coming at you. If I notice that you aren’t giving 100% effort, I’m going to send you on a run to the fence. This doesn’t mean you are in trouble, and it doesn’t mean that I’m mad. I’m giving you the time to refocus your energy while you reflect on your performance. We also need to stay in shape throughout our season, so a nice jog to the fence is good for you. It’s going to happen to all of you at some point. It’s no big deal, so just come back and play hard. Hustle is a habit; don’t ever walk on the field. Let’s have some fun and work hard today. Get a team cheer, and let’s go!”
As the season progresses, the players are adept at reiterating this speech. I ask, “What are we aiming for today?” and they proficiently articulate the key points in their own words: effort, hustle, attitude, accountability, enjoyment, and growth.
Post-practice, I convene another huddle to discuss their perception of the day’s practice. We assess their strengths, areas for improvement, and solicit their input on future objectives. This reflective dialogue extends to life lessons, a conversation sometimes integrated into our pre-practice huddle. Some of the lessons shared are silly, and others hold deep meaning. I’ve shared my experiences in choosing a college major, romantic relationship realizations, learning to drive, and awkward moments I’ve had trying to find my way in this world as an adult. One of my players this week shared a funny lesson: she realized the Twitter symbol was a bird, and that’s why they call it tweeting. It creates a comfortable atmosphere for my athletes to share thoughts and lessons that resonate with them. Beyond connecting, this practice reveals my multifaceted identity as more than just a coach – a person with various roles and dimensions.
The significance of setting the tone for athletes cannot be understated. It provides them with behavioral guidelines and performance standards, eliminating the need for continuous correction during practice. Initiating practice with the right approach is the best way to ensure it is productive and effective.
One Game, One Love. 