This is the best time of the year for many sports that are competing and trying to become the champion we all dream of experiencing as an athlete. Whether you like to follow pro, college or just amateur sports, the dream of ending the season as a champion is just around the corner. What are some of the attributes of a true champion, both as a team and as individuals?
To become a “champion” requires some major components that must be present to achieve the ultimate prize in sport. We always say that this is why great athletes compete – to try and conquer the best results against the very best competition. As we all know, it is not an easy task and it may take some luck along the way, but if we can control some major components that it takes to be successful in the athletic arena at this time of the year – our chances of experiencing success will increase greatly. Whether you play a team sport or compete as an individual, the mental and physical preparation must be blended to experience that great performance.
Having the opportunity to be a part of many championship performances, there are some common qualities of the teams and individuals that reach the pinnacle in their sport. We all know that we cannot control everything that may happen in a game, match, or event. But looking back at these championship performances, I can find some common attributes in championship performers. Here are a few components that I find common to all that have reached the podium of athletic success:
1. Mindset – A champion always displays a “there is no way I will lose this game” mentality. Their self-talk is powerful and positive and the energy level is extremely high! They have a strong passion to win and their preparation is consistent and thorough! Champions expect to win and there is never any doubt in their self-talk or preparation.
2. Desire – A strong and endless desire that they can taste and ultimately becomes the desired outcome. No matter what distractions may occur, they never lose sight of staying in the moment and reaching their goals. Execution – Distractions = Performance.
3. Discipline – Champions display discipline in their practices, style of play, preparation and through all the adversity that certainly will come with every game. They have practiced being uncomfortable and have mastered their ability to handle stressful moments.
4. Determination - Determination is different than desire, and a champion has both. Determination has strong purpose, relentlessness that the desired outcome will be attained, regardless of personal cost. Champions desire greatness and will battle through the tough times and never let down. In fact, it is a stimulus to a champion. Determination feeds resiliency, and champions display great determination, which makes them resilient.
5. Grit – Grit is the display of perseverance for long-term goals, regardless of what obstacles may be come your way. To be a true champion, you need to learn to lose. You need to learn to hate losing, but you need to learn from losing. Perseverance needs to translate into determination. An “I will not lose” attitude serves no purpose to a coach or player without perseverance and “grit” to make it so. Champions have grit!
6. Class – One of the definitions of the word “class” is “the best of its kind”. Enough said. Champions display class in performance and behavior!
Until Next Month,
