Intangibles: Coaches Want ‘Em
Softballers! I know you know what intangibles are. But are you using them to your advantage?
When college coaches scout high school softball players, they obviously evaluate physical attributes such as speed, power, and technical skills on offense and defense. However, success on the field is not solely determined by these physical traits. The intangibles are often what separate mediocre athletes from exceptional ones. These intangibles are crucial to success, but they can be difficult to measure. Statistics are not the only things coaches consider; they want to see how athletes approach the game, react to different situations, and work hard. You might be wondering what some of these specific intangibles might be.
Here is our list of the Top Five Intangibles:
1. Attitude
One's attitude plays a crucial role in shaping their approach towards life, whether it's positive or negative. Trust us in that college coaches have the uncanny ability to sniff out a negative attitude from miles away. As a college athlete, you are bound to face various challenges, such as early morning workouts, late-night traveling, and sleepless nights full of schoolwork. Your attitude will be indicative of how you will handle these challenges.
Furthermore, athletes who value team success over individual recognition will impress college coaches. These athletes tend to use the term "we" more frequently than "I." Coaches are attracted to athletes who give credit to their teammates, appreciate the coaching staff, and do not display self-centered behavior. If you are a top player, your performance will speak for itself; you don't need to brag about it.
2. Effort
Giving maximum effort in every play does not require any physical talent. Coaches value players who show exceptional effort, such as the middle infielder who lays out for a ball in foul territory or the hitter who sprints out of the batter's box on every hit or the outfielder who hustles in between the chalk lines every chance they get. While coaches can encourage athletes to give their best effort, it is up to the athlete to find it within herself. Personal pride and self-discipline are key factors that motivate athletes to bring out their best effort.
3. Leadership
Often, a player's leadership ability is measured by their enthusiasm and vocal presence during games. However, effective leadership can also be demonstrated through leading by example, which can be just as impactful and productive as shouting to motivate the team. Coaches search for players who exhibit positive behavior both on and off the field, as other players are likely to follow their lead. While coaches certainly do appreciate players who are vocal and can inspire their teammates with their words, they also value those who can lead by example and back up their demands with their actions.
4. Coachability
If you ask any college coach, they will tell you that coachable players are the best players. It is easy for coaches to identify players who are not coachable and they know it is tough to transform such a player into a coachable one. Therefore, athletes must demonstrate their coachability. Coachable athletes receive feedback openly, are willing to break bad habits, and exhibit humility and gratitude when coaches take the time to help them improve. If a college coach is interested in recruiting you, they may inquire with your coach about your coachability.
5. Sportsmanship
A big factor coaches consider when evaluating recruits is their behavior on the field towards teammates, coaches, umpires, and opponents. If a player is prone to taunting an opponent, or rolling their eyes at an umpire, or talking back to their coach, it raises concerns for the college coach about the player's maturity and potential issues that may arise. Therefore, demonstrating sportsmanship, such as checking on an opponent after an especially hard tag or thanking the umpire after a game, is valued by coaches, even if it doesn't garner as much attention as showy celebrations. College coaches prioritize not only talented players but also good teammates and responsible citizens.
Don’t forget…
College coaches recruit strong players who possess a well-rounded set of qualities. While physical talent and skills are essential, coaches also seek individuals who exhibit positive intangible qualities that contribute to the overall success of the individual and the team. If a coach is deciding between two players who play the same position and have similar physical ability, the harder working player with the better attitude will win out every time. Ultimately, intangibles can be the determining factor in a player's success and the success of the team.
Ask yourself today - If a college coach comes to watch me play tomorrow, will my attitude, effort, leadership, coachability and sportsmanship make them want me on their roster? Remember- coaches recruit the intangibles, too!