Motivation is the key to success. In order for a person to thrive, they must be motivated. So is the case in athletics. Athletes must have the desire to improve and be the best in the field in order to achieve their aspirations. Being a coach, you understand this but how do you infuse it in young athletes especially? Here are 5 tips you need to motivate young athletes.
Read more: 6 ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR YOUTH SPORTS COACHES
Acknowledge the Importance of Motivation
As a coach, it is your primary responsibility to motivate your athletes. And communicating this importance is necessary. Training and conditioning do prepare children to become better athletes but without enough motivation, they will put the lesser effort into these processes. It is essential that you give them positive feedback and encourage their growth even if it is continuous. This way they will enjoy their sport more and appreciate the advantages of doing well.Read more: HOW TECHNOLOGY IS AFFECTING YOUTH SPORTS
Discover each Athlete’s Unique Motivators
As each individual is different, each person is motivated differently. The best way to keep up with this is to learn as much as you can about each of the players and noticing what motivates them. One player may like being praised in front of their team, whereas another would find it uncomfortable. The key is focusing on reactions, and trying to modify your actions based on verbal and non-verbal feedback.Read more: WHAT MOTIVATES ATHLETES
Explain the “Why”
Young athletes can be really challenging to deal with sometimes. They question every move, they require answers. Often they want to know why are we doing this. Sometimes, in order to succeed, to get them to do what needs to be done, you have to explain to them the benefits. If young players do not know why practice is important, it can cause a drop in their motivation to carry it on. When you have explained why something works, it is easier for them to pluck out how their hard work is processing. Once athletes begin seeing the results of their actions, they’re motivated to follow instructions enthusiastically.Read more: TOP 10 RULES FOR YOUTH SPORTS
Encourage Teamwork
Humans naturally tend to form a bond with the people they are around. Similarly, forming positive relationships with teammates and other competitors for young athletes can be extremely motivating. Being a coach, you must encourage athletes to engage with one another through team-building activities and get to know each other. Celebrating achievements as a whole also assists in building a strong relationship which motivates team players.Read more: CREATE A POSITIVE YOUTH SPORTS CULTURE
Set Achievable Goals
A magnificent motivation is when you achieve a goal- short- or long-term. However, this can turn against young athletes if the goal is not realistic. As a coach, you must aim for goals that can be accomplished. Goals that comprise individual and team achievements are particularly effective for motivating kids. Being a coach of young athletes can be a tough job, but carefully picking out the best techniques, can ensure their success. It is extremely important to motivate athletes appropriately to pave their way towards a rewarding athletic career.Read more: 10 Tips to Keep Players Focused and Working Hard