Preparation as a Starter or Role Player
You can view a lack of playing time as a helpless situation, however, this negative mindset actually leads to a lesser role on your team.
When you adopt a negative mindset, several questions and concerns can stir in your mind:
- “Maybe I’m not good enough to play at this level.”
- “What if I never get any more playing time?”
- “Why should I practice hard if I’m not going to play in games?”
- “Why am I wasting my time if I’m not going to play?”
This negative approach to being on the bench hurts your motivation, confidence, focus, and effort.
When athletes have a negative attitude, their motivation suffers. During practice, they do not go all out. They hold back instead of focusing on improving their conditioning, strength, coordination, or skill development.
They see little benefit in putting in the work with little visible reward. They may even shrug off any responsibility for their situation and strictly blame their coach.
As a result, their confidence drops, and they make more mistakes in practice. Ultimately, their attitude and lack of improvement do not earn them playing time. They are stuck in an unproductive loop that holds them back from achieving more within their sport.
Conversely, athletes with a positive mindset take control and responsibility for their circumstances. Even when on the bench for a string of games, these athletes remain solution-oriented, which keeps them confident, motivated, and focused.
The key for bench players is to be always prepared, including:
- Doing the work – If you want to improve, you must work to improve. That is true for mental and physical skills.
- Staying physically ready – It’s not enough to practice; you must be in peak competitive condition to be your best.
- Stay mentally engaged – On the sidelines, you should be mentally engaged in the game. Take notice of your opponent’s tendencies, what is working, and what you would do if you were in the game.
- Controlling what you can control – Remember, you cannot control your coach’s decision but are fully in charge of your attitude and effort.
- Making the most of your opportunities – When your number is called, go for it. Don’t hold back or fear making mistakes. Do what you have trained your body and mind to do.
Baltimore Ravens offensive lineman Ben Cleveland takes pride in his preparation despite playing sparingly over his first three seasons Even though he has lacked playing time, Cleveland stated he feels confident if asked to step in as a replacement.
CLEVELAND: “I feel like I’ve been my most consistent and most proactive throughout camp. It’s been a struggle having to move around positions with injuries and stuff like that. But as far as adapting to other positions and just playing where I’m asked, I feel like I’ve been extremely consistent and competitive…So, [I’m] just staying ready for when my number gets called to go in and play.”
Complaining about your circumstances or giving up on yourself is never the answer. Be proactive and prepared. Your opportunity may come sooner than you think.
Ask for feedback from your coaches and teammates on improving your skills. Stay positive, focus on solutions, and always be prepared when opportunity knocks.
Related Sports Psychology Article
- Accepting Your Team Role
- Managing the Many Roles Athletes Have
- How to Embrace Challenges Like Pro Athletes
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