Player Responsibilities
The core of the team is made up by the players. Parents, coaches,
administrators, referees ... all these adult groups exist to provide the
students with a venue to play organized basketball. The kids come first. But
that doesn't mean that they do not have responsibilities. In fact, if the kids
don't do their part, the adults' efforts are pointless. Its very important for
the players to realize that playing ball is a privilege. That privileged
is earned. How? Well, it takes more than talent to earn a spot as a team member.
It takes a lot of work to be a good student, a good player and a good citizen.
It also takes excellent time management skills and the personal discipline to
stay the course. The time and effort required to prepare for and complete a
season is substantial. The accomplishment, though, is rewarding and a big step
forward in the process of growing up.
The following list is made up of items that comprise a player's
responsibility to his team. If he meets these responsibilities, and the
teammates do as well, then the team as a whole will be strong. If just one
player fails at any one of these things, however, the whole team will suffer to
some degree.
Responsibilities expected from a player
- Role model for sportsmanship
- Role model as a student
- Encourage appropriate behavior from peers
- Understand the program philosophy
- Learn all the team plays as thoroughly as you can
- Attend all practices
- Be on-time attendance to all games, practices and team events
- Keep your grade point average as high as possible
- Do every skill the way your coach says, even if it seems awkward
- Help with all fundraising efforts
- Give your best effort in every drill and conditioning workout
- Treat everyone with respect, especially teammates and all adults
- Stay healthy. That means getting enough sleep and proper nutrition
- Stay in shape during the off season
- Say no to stupid temptations from other students
- Follow all the school rules to the letter
- Speak up in class. As an athlete, you are an important part of the student
body.
- Always talk positively about your team and your school
- Ask questions in practice if you don't fully understand
- Practice on your own. Daily practice during the season is not enough to be a
great player.
- Watch better players, like college and pro, in person or on TV and study
their game
- Play basketball with older players, especially if you can find ones with
college experience
- Stay out of trouble at home so deprivation of basketball isn't used as a
punishment
- Keep a positive and enthusiastic attitude. It helps everyone play better.
- Most importantly, have fun playing basketball!