Competitive Drive Trumps Ability, If You Can Prove It

“Athletic Character” Puts Many Prospects Over the Top

Ask college coaches this: “Would you prefer a kid with talent lacking in desire over a less talented one with an all-or-nothing approach?”  Almost every coach will opt for the kid who will practice and play hard every time they put on the uniform. 

Talented prospects that don’t seem to be invested emotionally in practice and games are unlikely to change their habits and make a turnaround in college, suddenly transforming into the tenacious athlete they had the potential to become all along.  It’s something ingrained in them.  They may give lip service to it interviews, but the proof just isn’t there on a daily basis.  Sad, but true.

Then there’s the kid with “heart.”  With a modicum of talent, this kid gets to practice early, homes in on getting better every day, doesn’t get bummed out when beaten in one-on-one drills, runs out every sprint, and asks the coach how to improve.  This is the player who sits quietly on the bench as upperclassmen take their turn playing.  He listens well in practice and then works overtime to improve.  It’s the kid who talks about the sport on Saturdays and Sundays, watches it more to learn than to enjoy, and then goes in the back yard and plays the sport of the season with neighborhood friends just for the fun of it.  This is the kid who simply loves to compete and win.

So, how can kids with heart prove it to coaches?  You usually can’t clearly see it on video.  You can say you have it, but who’s to say you are right?  What do you do?  Here some proof positive ways put your heart into play:

• Get written or video testimonials from coaches and teammates
• Send copies of practice videos to coaches
• Write a personal essay or speak on video about your dedication and desire
• Document your workouts

It’s a pain, but in recruiting if you are a prospect with more heart than talent you must be willing to do the added things necessary to show that special side of your athletic character.  The race for a scholarship offer is going on every minute of every day.  There is no time to lose.  By demonstrating an uncommon will which few others genuinely have, you can set yourself apart.  Remember, after all is said and done, you only need one coach to truly believe in you.  Give that coach a chance to find you and fall in love with your heart for the game.