IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-23-16) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

In looking back at your classroom and sports performance this past school year, what have you learned about yourself? Hopefully you tasted some success and learned from your mistakes.

But more importantly, I hope you have developed a work ethic and attitude that will benefit you going forward.

Eleven-time Grand Slam tennis champion Novak Djokovic admitted in Sports Illustrated that "there were days and times of my career when I went through a lot of doubt."

So whether you are a graduating senior or just starting your high school experience, know there will be tough times and a lot of doubt. No student-athlete is exempt! Not even the most successful ones.

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-25-16) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

A recent survey of 410 human resource professionals shows that 36% of companies in the U.S. have disqualified job candidates because of concerning information on social media/online search.

Just this past week an ESPN employee was terminated for an ill-advised post on his Twitter account. Do you get the picture? You must be aware at all times of what you are posting and talking about on social media.

Most student-athletes don't realize how serious the consequences might be for something they deem non-important when voicing their opinions and thoughts on social media.

Your actions today can affect your future of tomorrow. Don't be careless or thoughtless with your words!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-18-16) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

All teachers and coaches use the expression "no excuses" from time to time. Have you made excuses for not playing well or making a poor grade in the classroom? It's easy to place blame on others to cover-up your own deficiencies.

However, making excuses is rarely justified. Not only that, teachers and coaches don't like hearing about it.

Other than sickness or a justified injury, don't use a weak excuse if you under-perform. Instead, take accountability and move on to your next challenge. By doing so, you will gain the respect and confidence of all those around you!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-11-16)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Most coaches tell their athletes to be careful about their content when it comes to tweeting. Let's face it, it's more fun to tweet about success instead of failure.

However, if you are a high school athlete, chances are you will have more subpar moments than successful ones. It's part of being an athlete.

PGA golfer Ricky Fowler had one of those bad moments in the first round of the Masters, shooting a high score and giving himself no chance of winning. Critics were making fun of his high-top golf shoes.

His tweet said "I was always taught if you don't have anything nice to say don't say anything at all." How do you react to negative comments and subpar games? Most of us are sensitive and care about how others perceive us.

Can you react in a positive way and make no excuses? Whether you tweet or not, don't say anything that you might regret later. Failure can be a part of any sporting event and it is nothing to be ashamed of!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-4-16)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

With the 2016 Masters getting ready to take place in Augusta, Georgia, players are getting prepared in different ways.  Some chose to play in tournaments last week, and others decided to play practice rounds on the Augusta course.

Zach Johnson, a former Masters champion, talked about his preparation like this: "When the outcome becomes the issue, you have lost everything.”

As a student-athlete, be like Zach and don't lose focus on the importance of practice and preparation. Don't look at the final outcome of a game or season ahead of all the individual and team practices.

Practice and preparation will provide positive outcomes, even though all of them won't be winning ones!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-14-16)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

One of the many challenges facing today's student-athlete is how to avoid burnout. Do you play one sport or multiple sports? Do you train the year around or part time? Have you given up another sport in the last year or two?

Burnout can come from a variety of reasons. Some include putting too much pressure on yourself, having higher expectations than reasonable, and feeling pressure from a coach or your parents.

The best way to avoid burnout is to constantly remind yourself that you play sports for the fun and enjoyment. Don't ever lose that perspective.

While it's hard to take time off during the season, be sure to give yourself time away in the off season. Burnout stems from doing the same thing over and over again. Be sure to change training habits in the off season. And most importantly remember, sports is only a game.

Be sure to treat it that way!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-7-16) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

One of the many responsibilities of a coach or teacher is to correct the student-athlete when you do something wrong or need improvement. How are you when it comes to handling constructive criticism or suggestions?

Remember, there are all different styles and deliveries when teaching or coaching someone. Be sure to listen to the message. Some will be negative in the delivery, others will be positive. But filter the delivery and listen to the message.

Handling criticism and instruction will only make you better. Everyone needs improvement, so take those suggestions to help you become a better person, student, and athlete!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2-29-16) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Have you ever been leery or unsure of playing for a new coach? Coaching changes are very common in this day and age, and whether it's moving on from the freshmen team to junior varsity to varsity, every athlete goes through this experience.

How will you adjust? Sometimes you look forward to a change, and other times you will be apprehensive. Regardless, you have to prepare yourself to be ready, especially mentally ready.

A quote from a newly appointed football coach in the SEC said it best. "The team is much more willing than I anticipated, much more eager than I expected, more unified than I ever imagined."

Change will be much smoother if you and your teammates are willing, eager, and unified! Can you help lead the way?

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2-1-16)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Playing team sports can be a fun and rewarding experience. It can also be challenging and frustrating at times.

Regardless, very few teams finish the season with the same starting line-up or personnel that it began the season with. Whether it's injuries, coach's decision, or players making big improvements, the end of the season usually looks nothing like the start.

That's why it is so important that all team members embrace every practice as an opportunity to improve and give themselves a better chance of earning playing time. You never know when your chance will arrive, but chances are you will get your opportunity sometime during a long and arduous season.
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (1-25-16)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

How do you view your participation in sports and extra-curricular activities? Is it a right or is it a privilege?

Anytime you are part of a school team, your participation is a privilege you have earned. There are rules and guidelines that you must follow or what you have earned can be taken away. There are consequences for bad actions and bad decisions.

In light of two high school girls basketball seasons being cancelled (for girls and fans losing their composure and fighting during the contest), let it be a lesson to all. Sports participation is a privilege and this privilege can be and should be taken away in extreme cases where teams and fans lose focus on the number one priority of any high school sporting event, sportsmanship!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (1-18-16) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"
We have all heard the saying that athletes are made in the off-season. How about good teammates? When are they made? How would you describe a good teammate?
Here are a few attributes of a good teammate: You care as much about your teammates as you care for yourself. You respect your teachers and coaches equally. You feel a sense of community. Winning is more important than individual fame. You set a good example both on and off the field of play.
Good teammates are made by striving to do the right thing all day long and all season long. Being a good teammate is contagious in a positive way. When every player on the team really cares about every teammate, the formula for success is in the making.
Do you have what it takes to be a good teammate?
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (1-11-16)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

After 12 seasons and winning 2 Super Bowls, New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin retired last week. His outgoing speech to the media was how deeply he felt about the importance of fostering team chemistry.

Regardless of what sport you play or at what level you are participating, this quote about team and unity will apply to you.

"My contention is there is a higher ground, a greater purpose. That purpose is team, it is the team concept. Winning, losing, playing hard, playing well, doing it for each other, winning the right way. That's what motivates and inspires us. Championships are won by teams who love one another, who love and respect one another, who play for and support one another."

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (1-4-16) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Don't take this the wrong way, but most student-athletes reading this tip are not the best player on their team. Not only that, you probably aren't the fastest, strongest or biggest. How do you overcome those challenges?

If you are looking for hope and inspiration to start this New Year, you need to look no further than this quote from arguably the best golfer of all-time, Tiger Woods.

"People don't understand that when I grew up, I was never the most talented. I was never the biggest. I was never the fastest. I certainly was never the strongest. The only thing I had was my work ethic, and that's been what has gotten me this far."
Developing a solid work ethic not only helps you in the classroom and sports, it also helps you in the game of life!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (12-14-15)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

When it comes right down to it, what separates the elite student-athlete from the one who might under achieve?
Is it all based on talent? Is it understanding the strategy of your sport and how to apply it? Is it about effort and outworking your teammates and opponents?

Whether you are the best player on the team or just trying to earn more playing time, I've heard many coaches and former players say over the years, "the most impressive trait of a good athlete is playing within the ability of yourself and not trying to do too much."

Does your game fit within those parameters? If so, you should find plenty of success and playing time!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (12-7-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Does your coach talk with you about the use of social media? Are there specific rules and guidelines initiated by your athletic department? Do you follow the guidelines and expectations?

A tweet with "insensitive language" caused a Massachusetts cheerleader to be banned from her squad for the rest of the season. This should be a reminder to all student-athletes to think twice before posting any questionable material on social media.

What may not seem foolish or insensitive to you could offend someone else. Don't deter your academic and athletic quests by the push of a button!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (11-30-15)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"
What's your mental approach when you are in a slump or having trouble getting playing time? Do you sulk? Do you feel sorry for yourself? Do you blame the coach or take accountability? How do you react in game time situations, especially in rival games?
Gary Danielson, color commentator for CBS and former college (Purdue) and professional quarterback, said something during a recent broadcast that makes plenty of sense.
"In the biggest games it's the littlest things that make all the difference." Sometimes when we look at the big picture, we forget about all the little things that can lead to success. Pay attention to those little things along the way to lift yourself up when it really counts!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (11-23-15)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Training under supervision is much easier than training when no one is watching. Wouldn't you agree?

Carli Lloyd, female soccer star and 2015 Sportsman of the Year in Sports Illustrated, gives all of her credit to success to her training when no one was watching.

She almost quit soccer at age 21, but 12 years later she led the USA to the gold in the Women's World Cup because of her strict training program.

"If a player trains when nobody is watching, she might be able to do superhuman things when the entire world is watching." Lloyd did!

When you start training for your next season, coaches don't have to be watching. What you do on your own will make the biggest difference!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (11-16-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

How do you view competition for a starting position on your high school team? It's sometimes tough to accept losing a starting spot.

Andrew Whitworth, a starting offensive lineman for the Cincinnati Bengals, has an approach (quoted in Sports Illustrated) that can help you with that dilemma. The Bengals continue to draft good offensive lineman yearly and he welcomes each one with open arms. He even gives them tips on how to get better.

"At the end of the day, who you are as a man (woman) is more important than who you are as a football player. For (those guys) to one day be as good as they can possibly be is more important than whether or not they beat me out. If you're a true warrior, competition doesn't scare you. It makes you better.”

Hopefully you can apply this type of attitude the next time you are fighting for your position!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (11-9-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"
Athletes are always faced with challenges. One of the toughest is to finish out a game, meet, or match that you have no chance to win.
When you reach that point where you know it's a loss, how do you react? Do you give up? Do you hang your head? Do you cop an attitude?
How you finish those types of games says a lot about you. Do you still give 100%? Are you still positive with your teammates? Do you make up excuses?
The next time you are involved in a sporting event and the time on the clock tells you it's a loss, don't let it reflect on your end of the game behavior. Handle it with class and move on immediately to your next challenge!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (11-2-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"
The University of Toledo is not known as a college football power, but they find themselves ranked in the Top 20 in the Amway Coaches Poll. There are plenty of reasons why, but the number one reason is their coach, Matt Campbell, and his great approach.

You must admire his philosophy. Here, in a few words, is what Campbell talked about in a recent article in USA Today:

"As much as this is about winning and losing games, we're still teachers. With everything these guys are going through, it's hard. We were all 18 or 19 once, but we can't lose the fundamentals of how to do things the right way from yes sir, no sir, please and thank you’ to how do I carry myself the right way to do the right thing? It's not just about football."

Let the simple things in life be the foundation you build your life upon!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (10-26-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"
Everyone that plays athletics at any level will suffer a tough loss from time to time. If you are a Michigan football player, last week's loss to rival Michigan State is as tough as they come.
Michigan's punter fumbled the snap and MSU scored with no time left to win the game. Was it the punter's fault? Was it a bad snap? Was it a coaching decision? In the long run, it doesn't really matter.
But one thing I do know is this: never let a play or game, good or bad, define you as a person. What really defines you is what you learn from your sport's experience. Hopefully it makes you a better person and helps prepare you for future challenges in life!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (10-19-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"
Before the Major League Baseball playoffs began, Chicago Cub pitcher Jon Lester was reflecting on the youth of his teammates when he said that the playoffs are nothing that can be explained, they have to be experienced. Now the Cubs will have their chance to do so.
In all high school sports you have your playoffs in the form of state tournaments. Like most sporting events, the favorites are usually the ones that have performed the best during the regular season. However, state tournaments wipe the slate clean for every team, good or bad. It's a fresh start.
Don't predetermine your expected outcome based on your regular season record. Upsets and the unexpected seem to happen more than you think. So go into every game believing you have a chance to win, regardless of what happened in previous games or past history. It took the Cubs over 100 years to clinch a playoff berth on their home field. Hopefully you experience a big moment during your high school career!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (9-21-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"
One of the many challenges facing the high school athlete is how to respond to the media (school newspaper, local paper, radio or television) after a hard earned victory or a tough defeat.
Athletes are most vulnerable after a tough loss. Choose your words carefully and think about what you want to say before you say it. Don't make excuses and give credit where credit is due.
After a victory, it's important to remain humble. There are usually multiple reasons your team wins, so give credit to all of those involved. Short answers are better than long ones.
The more you have the experience of talking with the media, the more comfortable you will become. Win or lose, enjoy the opportunity of your interview. It becomes easier with time!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (9-28-15)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"
I read an article recently about a volleyball coach and her approach to her team about practice.
She stated to her players that they probably tell people all the time, "I have to go to practice, it's a requirement." You rarely tell people, "I get to go to volleyball practice. It's an opportunity."
What a difference in attitude! How you view something can make a significant improvement in your approach and the results you might get. Regardless of your sport, and whether you are in season or not, why not look at every practice as an opportunity? By doing so, you may find yourself having more fun and getting better results!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (9-14-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

This past week a Texas high school and two of its football players were involved in an ugly exchange with a football referee. In short, the ref was blindsided and was intentionally run over and attacked by the two players.
As a student-athlete, you know that emotions run high when you are competing and trying to win. However, there is never a time to justify bad behavior. Regardless of the circumstance, never lose your cool and composure.
Part of competing fairly means respecting all of those involved: the officials, coaches, teammates, opponents, and the fans. It's a fact that only one team can win, but everyone loses when bad behavior and bad decision making becomes the headlines!
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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (9-7-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

The start of a new school year is usually fun and exciting. There's nothing like a fresh start!
How do you keep that excitement brewing? Here are a few suggestions:
Keep up with your studies and make a habit of not falling behind. Eat healthy. Get plenty of rest/sleep. If you are presently involved in a sport, be engaged in the team and pay close attention to all the details it takes to become a contributor whether you start or not.
The first grading period will be here before you know it. Make that your top priority!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-25-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

How well do you read your coach? It can be difficult at times because some are outgoing, some keep to themselves, others wear their emotions on their sleeves, and some are just plain hard to read.

Don't assume that a coach who is pushing you hard doesn't believe in you; or conversely, if your coach doesn't challenge you, don't assume your performance is up to his/her standards.

Coaches will challenge you in different ways. No two coaches are alike. Don't focus on whether your coach "likes" you as a person. Instead, remember that all coaches are focused on your performance, regardless of how they get their point across!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-18-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

How long have you been playing organized sports? Does it ever feel like you aren't making progress and get in a rut from time to time?

Sometimes what you learn from a game or practice is more important than how you actually played. This is especially true in early season workouts and games.

Too many times athletes worry about today instead of focusing on the end result, and that is, how good you are at the end of a season.

While each practice and game are important, it's also what you learn day to day that will determine how good you become!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-11-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Most student-athletes are on the go 365 days a year. There is little time off and plenty of pressure to perform at a high level. Do you ever reach a time of satisfaction? Do you enjoy or have fun with your participation? Does you sport consume you?

I feel a key to being successful and having fun is to enjoy your small accomplishments along the way. Whether it's a good practice, improvement during a game, or just gaining more confidence in your abilities, enjoy those times.

At the end of the day it's just a game, a sport you hopefully enjoy playing. Treat it that way!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-4-15)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

A recent tweet from Indianapolis Star sportswriter Kyle Neddenriep stated that it "Seems obvious but crazy how much opinion of a player can change based on body language. Positive or negative."

Regardless of your sport, or time of season, college coaches are forming opinions of your skills and attitude. Sure their opinion is based first on your ability to play, but not far behind comes your attitude - seen in your body language.

Whether it's during a high school game, club sports or AAU, college coaches form an opinion of you based not only on your ability, but how you interact with your coach, teammates and officials. Make sure you take control of the one thing you can control, and that’s your body language. It might just be the difference-maker!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-27-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

PGA golfing great Tom Watson has said that he liked to picture legend Sam Snead's swing when the heat was on.
The same can be said for whatever sport you play. When the pressure is on, visualize an athlete that excels under pressure, and picture his/her success in your mind.
When you get nervous or jittery, think about this technique to calm you down and get you relaxed. Regardless of what routine you use, do so with a positive mindset that produces positive results. Sometimes, seeing is believing!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-20-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

"Good habits are hard to form and easy to live with. Bad habits are easy to form and hard to live with."

This quote by Brian Tracy holds true in all walks of life, and especially for the student-athlete.

Do you have good study habits and practice habits? What type of good habits are you trying to perfect away from school? Get the picture?

Work on those habits that will benefit you both for today and the future. Good habits will carry you a long way in all of your endeavors!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-13-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

It's funny how fame works. A week ago few people knew the name Grayson Allen, unless you were a Duke basketball fan. Now he is known throughout basketball circles in America.
One game and how things can change. When opportunity knocks on your door, will you be ready to take advantage of it? Will you be prepared? Grayson was. He was averaging 4 points per game prior to his national title game performance. When Coach K called his number, he responded.
If you are a substitute or role player for your team, are you going to respond when you are called upon? You may not be in the national spotlight, but your goal should be the same. When you get your chance, be ready to capitalize on your opportunity!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-30-15) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Are you a student-athlete who occasionally disagrees with your coach? It is not uncommon and as you interact with other adults you will find that differing points of view can be healthy.

Most importantly it is key that you learn to take the initiative (not your parents) and have a one on one discussion to express your concerns and share your perspective.

Hopefully both you and your coach will feel better after the conversation. Your coach has the ultimate authority, but you will be learning a valuable lesson about accepting direction from the person in charge.

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-23-15)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

While watching the NCAA tournament this past week, it's evident that college athletes and their teams have a huge advantage when it comes to controversial calls and the use of instant replay.

In high school, once the call is made there is no recourse. Are you able to move on to the next play? Do you argue with officials?

Keep yourself focused and be sure to move on. Whether it's a line call in tennis, holding in football, a called strike in baseball, or a block-charge in basketball, officials are going to miss some close calls.

How you bounce back is more important than complaining about a questionable call!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-16-15)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

The NCAA basketball tournament tips off this week and the Kentucky Wildcats will be the number one seed and the team to beat.

But this tournament is no different than the high school tournament in your sport.  While there may be a big favorite, there will be upsets and story lines along the way that people will talk about in the years ahead.

Don't settle for what others think or predict when your tournament takes place. Don't be over confident in games you should win, and don't be intimidated if you are the underdog. 

At the end there will be only one team standing. Why can't that be your team someday! 

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-9-15)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"        

For years upon years, teachers and coaches alike complain about how students and athletes don't perform up to their capabilities.  Could this statement pertain to you in the classroom or field of play?

Pro golf commentator Johnny Miller said during last week's telecast that "there's nothing more common than wasted talent."

Some student-athletes discover too late that they didn't come close to reaching their potential and untapped ability.  Don't look back someday and regret that you wasted a great opportunity by wasting your talents!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2-23-15)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana”

Rivalry games/meets/matches have been a big part of sports throughout history. Let's face it, some games just seem more important than others. Who is your biggest rival? Do you look at the game in a different way?

Every school has that team they want to beat. The buildup before game time is incredible. The team and fans can't wait for it to start. You get that different feeling in your stomach.

Preparation is no different, but the outcome means more. Once it starts, it is just like any other game. Enjoy the environment, excitement, and the moment. In most cases, it's the game that provides you with the lifelong memories of high school sports!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2-16-15) “Promoting education based athletics in Indiana”

This past week the IHSAA suspended two basketball teams for the remainder of the year because of poor conduct and unacceptable behavior during a game. Players, coaches and officials all share responsibility in preventing this brawl.

Any student-athlete participating in high school sports knows that teams and individuals are successful because of their skills, not intimidation. There is no place in high school sports for cheap shots and trash talking, let alone fans and players rushing the court.

As an athlete, it's your responsibility to keep your composure at all times, regardless of the situation. Never let your emotions and actions outweigh the significance of sportsmanship and fair play!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2-9-15) “Promoting education based athletics in Indiana”

A few weeks ago a Hall of Fame baseball player from the past, Ernie Banks, passed away. Known as "Mr. Cub", Banks had the reputation of being the ultimate professional, even though his team, the Chicago Cubs, never won the pennant.

In an article in Sports Illustrated, writer Rich Cohen paid tribute to Banks and his fabulous career. "Too much is made of the winners; it's the losers that show you how to live."

Banks wasn't a loser, his teams just couldn't win it all. He thrilled the fans of Chicago every day for over 20 years with his hustle, ability, attitude, and enthusiasm for the game that has never been surpassed by any other Cub player!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (12-8-14)"Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

All teams will suffer a tough loss sometime during their season. A string of losses becomes known as a losing streak. The question becomes how do you stop the losing, or overcome that tough loss?

Have a short term memory (both in winning and losing), work harder in practice, listen to your coach, and don't point fingers at the others on your team.

Sometimes you just might be the inferior team. Don't think about the end result. Instead, focus on the things that you can do to make your team better.

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (11-17-14) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

What kind of body language do you display when you are playing your sport? Do you wear your emotions on your sleeves, or are you stoic and hard to read?

Most athletes get excited during positive or negative plays during a game. The key is to make those emotions short-lived and being able to move on to the next play.

Positive body language tends to inspire a team and the coaching staff. Negative body language does just the opposite. Set the right example for yourself and your teammates. Even if things aren't going your way, don't let the opponent know!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (11-10-14) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Today's student-athlete is no different than those of yesteryear. If you make poor choices you will be held accountable and punished for them.
Most kids think they can do questionable things and get away with them. Someone is likely watching and you will more than likely get caught. You know right from wrong, as well as the rules of your student and sports handbooks.
All students are expected to abide by the rules, but let’s face it, the student-athlete is always held to a higher standard. Representing yourself in a positive way will benefit you, your school, your family and your community!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (10-27-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana"

How is the spirit at your high school? Do you attend sporting events other than the ones that you participate in? Do you socialize with those outside of your sports?

School spirit and school unity depends on every student-athlete to be involved. Make it a habit to support the band, the choir, school plays, and any other activities in your school. By doing so, you are showing that all events at your school matter, not just those on Friday or Saturday nights.

Are you doing your part? Show your school spirit by being a spectator as well as being a participant!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (10-20-14) "Promoting education based athletics in Indiana"

Have you ever heard the saying "that it is much better to be a solution to a problem, rather than being the problem itself"?

This statement holds true in the classroom, the field of play, and in everyday life.

The achieving student-athlete finds ways to solve problems. Are you good at finding solutions and working your way through a difficult time or experience? Are you a problem solver, or do you tend to cause more problems than you would like to admit?

The next time you are facing a tough decision or problem, think of yourself as finding the solution, and encouraging your classmates and teammates to do the same!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (10-6-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana"

At most sporting events, the national anthem is played before the start of the game. How do you show your respect for the flag and our great country?

Do you stand at attention? Do you put your hand on your heart? Before your sporting event, does your coach or team captain encourage the team to do something uniformly?

Last week while watching the Indianapolis Colts game, I noticed quarterback Andrew Luck, hand on heart, singing the anthem as it was being played.

Positive role models are alive and well. Remember, others will be watching you!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (9-15-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Billy Horschel, winner of the PGA-BMW event last week, addressed his social media critics about "choking" the week before. He hit an errant shot on the final hole to finish tied for second.

While Horschel had a chance to win, he didn't beat himself up for a bad shot he hit on the 18th hole. He said in his interview afterwards that he didn't choke, but hit a very poor shot when it counted the most.

I'm sure he couldn't wait to redeem himself, and it only took him one week to accomplish that goal. The next time you drop a pass, miss a serve, or don't run the time you are expecting, don't be too hard on yourself.

Never look at failure in one isolated situation as choking. Instead, look at it as an opportunity for improvement!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (9-8-14)"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

This past week the Indianapolis Colts opened their NFL season against Denver and their former quarterback of 14 seasons, Peyton Manning.

Players were asked how Peyton influenced them over the years, and punter Pat McAfee was quoted as saying: "Exhaust yourself to become great and remain great. That's what I learned from Manning."

Do all you can in your four years to be remembered in a positive way, even if it's in a small way.

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-26-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

One of major league baseball's bright young stars is Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels. He offered the following advice without knowing so with a recent article written in Sports Illustrated by Tom Verducci.

"The biggest thing at the plate is if I tell myself to hit a home run, I get out 100% of the time. All my home runs come from just telling myself, base hit up the middle."

Athletes that try to do too much can get themselves in trouble. Regardless of your sport, keep this in mind as you train this summer. Don't swing for the fences. Improve your skills a day at a time!


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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-19-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

All athletes experience game time pressure throughout the season, but there is another type of pressure that is much more difficult to cope with, and that is peer pressure.

Every school year we hear or read about the tragedies that can take place with drugs and alcohol. I'm sure you know of someone in your circles who has chosen to make that wrong decision.

Don't let others determine what is right and wrong for you. Don't fall victim to peer pressure, and more importantly, don't jeopardize your future by making a foolish mistake today!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-12-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

The NFL draft took place this last weekend. One player had some insight from a family member. Derek Carr, younger brother of former number one pick David Carr, received the following advice from his older brother for this upcoming season.

David said, and I'm paraphrasing, that people will praise you a lot, and people will critique you a lot, but pay attention to neither.

Regardless of your sport, pay attention to those things that will make you a better player, a better teammate, and a better person on and off the field. It doesn't really matter what anyone else thinks!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (5-5-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck is back preparing for the upcoming NFL season, but this comes on the heels of taking six weeks off.

Granted, Luck is a one sport participant, and a pro at that, but it's very important for all athletes to get away from their main sport and rest the mind and body.

How much time do you take off when a season is completed? Does it help refresh you? When you return are you more anxious to play?

The time away will vary from athlete to athlete, but there's no doubt that it must be done. Your mind, body, and coach will tell you when it's time to return!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-28-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Most high school athletes feel like their coaches pick on them from time to time. Have you ever felt that way?

Up and coming big league baseball player Bryce Harper of the Washington Nationals may feel the same way. He was recently pulled from a game for not running out a routine ground ball. His manager said he showed "lack of hustle and when we play the game we must hustle at all times."

So the next time your coach says something to you that you may not agree with, keep in mind that he controls your playing time. Effort counts regardless of your sport. Your coaches know when you are giving your best effort!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-22-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

How do you perform when you are feeling pressure in the classroom or on the field? Whether it's on a big test or the final at bat in a ball game, there will come a time when it occurs.

In the Masters golf tournament last week, one of the announcers addressed the issue. He stated that the first sign of pressure is poor decision making, and the second sign is poor execution.

We all feel pressure from time to time. Relax, refocus and rely on your practice habits. Your decision making won't suffer--and you will put the pressure back on your opponent.

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-14-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Are you on your way out or on your way up? Are you a senior nearing the end of your high school career, or are you an underclassman with many opportunities ahead?

If you are a senior, make your last impression one that you can be proud of. Don't do anything foolish to jeopardize your graduation. Yes, you may be on your way out of high school, but you are really just beginning.

If you are an underclassman, you are on your way up. You have many opportunities and challenges awaiting you. Learn from those who have gone before you, and set a good example for those who will follow!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (4-7-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Have you been on the winning side or the losing side of an upset this school year? There's joy if you pull off the upset, but disappointment if you are on the receiving end.

On any given day, even the best teams are vulnerable and can be beaten. It happens in every sport at every level of play. Regardless of preparation and effort, there are times when it just isn't your day.

If you are on the losing end be sure to congratulate the winners, and if you pull off the upset don't throw it in your opponents face. Win with class and take your loss with dignity!


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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-31-14)   "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

In a pack of dogs, there are usually three groups. While each group has its own role, no group is considered superior. In other words, they are a team and they work together.

Those in front, referred to as alphas, give direction and offer protection and leadership. Those in the middle keep order and ensure that things run smoothly. Those in the back are the cautious ones, and they alert the others to potential threats.

As a player and teammate, it's important to know where you fit with your team, according to the pack mentality. Recognize that it's just as important to find people who are happy being in the back as it is to identify strong leaders.

If a team can maintain a balance of these respective personalities, it goes a long way in promoting success and cohesiveness. Where do you fit?

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-24-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

What type of character and leadership do you display when you aren't playing sports? Do you set a good example for your classmates? How do your teachers view you off the court or field of play?

A daily act of kindness can go a long way in generating a positive atmosphere throughout your school.

Whether it's a compliment to someone in between classes or being a positive influence in the classroom, your role as a student-athlete is on display all day long, all year long.

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-17-14)   "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

Injuries have always been a part of the game.  Today, with more awareness about the seriousness of concussions, athletes are even more prone to sit out of games and practices in order to fully recover.

However, while an injury might hamper one individual, it could open a door for another.  Have you ever been given an opportunity to get playing time because of an injury to a teammate?

The next time you find yourself on the bench and not playing, realize that your chance could come at any time.

While most athletes hope they play because of their ability and not an injury to a teammate, you must be able to put that aside and be ready to perform. Are you up for that challenge?

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-10-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

 The month of March marks the beginning of spring training for professional baseball players.  They use these six weeks to prepare and get into shape for their six month season.

 How long do you take in your preparation for your sport?  Do you prepare the same way for your toughest subjects in school?

 A major league manager who was a former player says that doing the little things has more value today than ever before.  Spring training is the time to work on those little things.

 Whether it's in the classroom or on the field of play, it’s the little things that will make a big difference in your high school experience.  Are you working on the little things?

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (3-3-14) "Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

A major challenge facing all student-athletes is who they listen to for instruction.

While the obvious answer is their coach, that's not always the case.  Too many times parents, siblings, or other outside influences seem to have the ears and eyes of the athlete instead of their coach.

So the next time you have the dilemma of who you should listen to for your instruction, I  would strongly suggest that you listen to the one who controls your playing time, and that is the coach!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2-24-14)
"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

All high school student-athletes will tell you that the final score is more important than individual statistics. However, that's not always the case. Some athletes care more about themselves than they do the team. Some athletes tend to be selfish.

In all team sports the focus of every team member should be on the final score, not the final stat sheet.

Are you willing to make that commitment for your team?

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2-17-14)
"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

The one dreaded word student-athletes hate to hear during their season is "slump.”

A slump is best described as not performing up to your capabilities or the expectations of your coach. 

Every athlete and every team will experience a slump sometime during a season.  How do you shake it?  The best solution is to be mentally tough and try to follow the instruction of your coach.

It's not a disease, but it can become contagious if you let it affect your passion and desire to make yourself and your team better.  Shake that slump by working hard and paying attention to detail!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2-10-14)
"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

There are three ways a student-athlete can develop: practicing, watching, and listening.

During the Winter Olympics in Sochi, the high school student-athlete has the opportunity to watch, listen, and read about some of the greatest athletes in the world.

Even though most of the events are ones in which the normal high school student-athlete doesn't participate, there is still an excellent opportunity to hear the stories, watch the efforts, and observe how athletes handle both the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.

Enjoy watching the competitions, and use this as an opportunity to take something from these games that will benefit your high school team and yourself!

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IHSAA Student-Athlete Tip of the Week (2-3-14)
"Promoting education-based athletics in Indiana."

This has been a difficult winter for the high school student-athlete with all the school cancellations and weather delays. Practices and games have been a constant challenge.

How have you adapted? Can you handle change? Are you able to stay up to date in the classroom? How do you maintain your conditioning?

There's only one month of the winter sports season left. Your opponents have faced the same issues. Whether it's illness, injury, or weather, teams are going to be faced with challenging issues. Those who move forward without complaining and making excuses will end up being the most successful when the season comes to a close.

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Regardless of what sport you play, most athletes are exposed to being criticized by the opposing crowd. Heckling might be a better word.

A professional baseball player recently tweeted "Fans are gonna say what they wanna say. And they have the right to say what they want to say. Sometimes it's best not to respond."

In this world of modern technology, it's easy to respond to the heckling from an opponent or their fans. Don't do it. There's nothing to be gained by getting in a war of words, either at the event, or later, on twitter.

It takes a bigger person to be quiet and unresponsive. But by being that type of person you truly win out in the end!

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Are you able to take criticism from a teacher or coach in a positive way, or do you get a negative attitude and feel like someone is picking on you?

Let's face it, when you are a student- athlete, there is a lot of learning that must be accomplished. Nobody enjoys hearing criticism, but it's part of the growing up process. Along the way, teachers and coaches will point out what you are doing wrong, trying to help you to become better and better.

So next time you get an ear-full from a teacher, coach, or your parents, don't take it personally. In most cases they are truly trying to make you better as a person, student, and athlete. It's later in life that you will learn to appreciate their effort.
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