Relationships with coaches can be tricky to navigate, but the key to any solid player-coach relationship can be answered with a simple question:

Does your coach trust you?

There are three simple habits that players (with the help of their parents) can develop that will build trust and immediately strengthen any relationship with any coach.

1- Show up Early

Every coach wants to feel like their players are 100% committed to the team. One of the most simple yet powerful ways to show your commitment is to show up early to all team activities. This is an incredibly simple habit to develop, yet it speaks volumes about where the team falls on your list of priorities.

This is one aspect of earning a coach’s trust where players and their parents can team up to make a positive impression on the coach. For players that aren’t old enough to drive themselves to practices, games, and team functions, parents are critical in coordinating transportation and getting their child to the venue on time.

2- Show up Focused to Practice

Practice is the place where coaches believe that their players and team will be able to make the biggest improvements. Coaches love practice, but players don’t always share the same enthusiasm.

Players and parents can often put a stronger emphasis on showing up focused for games while ignoring the importance of practice. A coach will always put more trust in a player that shows up everyday to practice with a great attitude and a strong determination to get better. Don’t waste your time. Try to get better during every practice!

Next time you head to practice, pick two specific things that you will focus on improving. These things can be big or small, but make sure they are specific. After practice, write down five instances where you remember yourself doing those things well, and two instances where you can make improvements. Review your notes and pick something different to focus on for next practice. Your focus on improvement and this post-practice evaluation will help you get the most out of every practice session.

3- Show up Prepared

A prepared athlete is a dependable athlete. Showing up on time, knowing the game plan, having the right uniform and coming with a great attitude are all ways that you can show your coach you are prepared to play. The harder you train yourself in practice, the more confidence you will have when you step into the game. Coaches love prepared players because they can trust them to be an extension of themselves on the field or court. Commit to preparation!