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Qualifiers

Being a Coachable Player During Qualifiers

By Egg Farmers of Ontario, 03/23/22, 2:45PM EDT

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The number one characteristic of a coachable player is...


Photo Credit: Heather Pollock Photography

Are you a coachable player?

A coach’s life becomes a lot easier when their players are open-minded to feedback. While coaches should be willing to adapt to best be able to communicate with their team it is also up to the players to understand that a coach is volunteering their time to share a passion for the game of hockey.

The number one characteristic of a coachable player is that they are open to learn. They understand what it means to be a part of a team and how the sum of the parts is greater than the individual. Even though we are in the final stretch of the season in OMHA Qualifiers presented by Egg Farmers of Ontario the opportunity for learning never stops.

Here are some other traits of players that are coachable.

Being a Good Teammate

A coachable player is someone who supports their teammates and acts unselfishly on the ice. They are willing to make the extra pass to get an assist instead of trying to score a goal. They know what it means to be successful as a group and takes enjoyment in seeing others do well. This team-first mentality builds a trust in the locker room and a leadership by example mindset.



They Are Ready and Prepared

Building the responsibility for players as they grow older is something that can be taught by a coach. Skaters should come to the rink with all of their equipment and with a focus on what’s happening on the ice. These traits carry over to school and work, where players need to be prepared to put in the effort to succeed.

Desire to Learn

Coaches should create an environment where players feel comfortable asking questions and enjoy learning. A player who is engaged means they are paying attention and trying to do their best. Seeking advice means they are aware of areas for improvement and have a curiosity for knowing the answer. These interactions build trust between a player and coach and an appreciation for what the other is trying to accomplish.


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Eye Contact and Focus

A player’s attention when a coach is speaking should be on them. Whether in a group or individual setting, making eye contact shows that you are giving the effort to listen to what they are saying and are paying attention to the information. Focusing on the whiteboard or instruction lets the coach know that you are respecting their time into helping you develop into a better athlete.

This carries over into the dressing room when the coach is addressing the team. Players should give the coach their full attention when they are talking, not taping their sticks or ruffling through their equipment bag. Not only is it disrespectful but it also is a distraction to the rest of the teammates.

A player’s attention span is relative to their age and coaches should understand that. Set realistic expectations of how long a player can focus in on one task. Keep it short and sweet.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Egg Farmers of Ontario is an association that represents approximately 500 egg and pullet farm families in the province. EFO works to ensure that consumers have access to safe, reliable and reasonably-priced eggs with fair farm pricing ensuring adequate returns to egg farmers. For more information, visit GetCracking.ca.

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