 Always be up front with them  Learn how to speak their language  Find out what makes them tick  Remind them of what they mean to the program  If you think there is something wrong there probably is  Don’t be afraid to ask questions

 Find ways for them to bond as a team  Lay out the frame work from the beginning  Set up opportunities for the team to come together  Let them help create the culture of the program  Choose a theme for the season

 Boundaries  Showing them that they come first  Making winning secondary  Being a constant role model  Opening your life to them  Being upfront with struggles

 Lay out the rules in writing from day one  Deal with things face to face right away  Help your athletes confront their teammates in a healthy manner  The 33% athlete  Always keep a pulse on the team  Have an open door policy that they will actually take advantage of  NO ONE IS BIGGER THAN THE PROGRAM!

 Balancing Focus with fun  Let them be themselves  Don’t get in your own way  Know that your athlete’s experience is more important than winning  Stay consistent