IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-20-13)

"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

I know it's not fair to compare professional athletes with those in high school, but the story line here shows how quickly management forgets about yesterday.

Last baseball season pitcher Philip Humber threw the 21st perfect game in baseball history, an unbelievable accomplishment.  Last week he was released by the Texas Rangers after starting 0-8 with a very high earned run average.

Athletic fame can be fleeting.  That's why getting an education should be your ultimate goal. 

Professional contracts and athletic scholarships can be taken away from you overnight, but a high school and college diploma will last you a lifetime.

IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-13-13)

"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Is it a high priority for you to be on time for class, practice, and other school or social activities?  This is a responsibility that you can control.

There is nothing more frustrating for a teacher or coach than to be interrupted after a class or practice has started.  There's rarely a good excuse for not being on time.  Make it a point to be early.  That way you are more likely to be engaged in that day's activity.

Sometimes student-athletes are penalized for something they don't have much control over.  Being on time shows that you care and respect the time and commitment of all others involved.

IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-6-13)

"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Most of today's student-athletes have parents who have been involved in their athletic development from an early age, and sometimes it's difficult for the parents to let go.

If your parents are over involved, how does it make you feel?  Coaches will tell you that parents should support their kids, but not instruct them during the season.

Learn to fight your own battles.  If you have an issue with a teacher or coach, set up an appointment and talk with them directly.  Don't count on your parents to fight your battles for you.

Those student-athletes who are willing to communicate with their superiors in a civil way will benefit from the experience and will gain the confidence of those in charge.  If you have an issue with your coach, don't run to your parents.  Instead, look forward to talking with that coach!

IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-29-13)

"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Free time?  Do you feel like you have free time?  Today's student-athlete is pulled in many directions and what we do with our free time is important.

If used wisely, it can become very valuable.  It's a time to get caught up on homework, it's a time to refresh your mind and body, and it's a time to reflect on what you are doing correctly or incorrectly.

Next time you have a day or two for yourself, think about what you can do differently to be more productive and still have fun.  Don't waste your free time by doing the wrong things!

IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-22-13)

"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Are you the student-athlete who follows up on a commitment that you have made to your parents, teachers, coaches, or teammates?  There's nothing more impressive to those who are in charge.

It is somewhat discouraging to those in charge when someone accepts the challenge of doing something and then they don't follow through.  If you commit to doing something, make sure you do your part.

Most teachers and coaches will tell you that they look at the effort, just as much as they look at the result.  If there's a project in the classroom, or new play or fundamental to learn in your sport, follow through and do you part.  Be sure to keep your word!

IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-15-13)

"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Celebrity Oprah Winfrey once said that "Running is the greatest metaphor for life, because you get out of it what you put into it.”

It's true in all stages of your life.  In high school, your focus may be athletics, academics and activities.  Do you put in the effort?

Everything you put into your sport comes back in some shape or form.  If you consistently work hard, you might be rewarded.  If you don't work hard, you won't be rewarded.

This same quote also applies in the classroom.  If you study, do your assignments, and pay attention in class, your chances for a good grade are extremely high.

What Oprah is really talking about in this quote is accountability and discipline.  If you hold yourself accountable by preparing for the end result, you should see a positive outcome!