Storyline: It’s not just about who’s stronger and faster. Strategy and being unpredictable win games.
What does it take to win in sports?
It takes preparation, hard work, being a team player, and knowing what has to be done on the field or court. There are certain skills that every athlete must have in order to perform well in his or her chosen sport. However, what about the mental game? Heart?
Let’s break it down.
Strength & Conditioning
In most sports, such as football, baseball, basketball, and soccer to name a few, it’s a team effort. We do have sporting events that are also singles competition, like in track and field, diving, and singles in tennis.
Every athlete, younger or older, knows that it takes strength and skill level. You walk into any middle school, high school, or college athletic field and you’ll see athletes getting better. These warriors on the field or court are getting stronger in hopes of beating their opponent.
The Mental Game
It’s not just about beating your opponent by being stronger or faster. It’s also about preparing for the game. In football, players watch game films. If you watch the opposing team, you’ll start seeing patterns. For example, in football on 3rd and long the quarterback will go to his favorite receiver about 80% of the time.
When I’m coaching football I tell linebackers to watch the quarterback’s eyes. 70% of the time he’s looking to where he’ll through the ball. Always look for opponents’ patterns.
Conclusion
You’ve made a choice to be an athlete in your chosen sport. It will take time, commitment, and hard work. You’ll represent your school and classmates, and you’ll learn skills that will prepare you for each game.
Just remember. It’s not just about who’s stronger and faster. Strategy and being unpredictable win games.
Very good article! I have played a lot of sports over the years. Some are definitely more strategic then others and some you need to have strength, speed and endurance. I like the detail in this article. Very well done Matthew Paris!