First Practice With a New Coach: How to Make It Count

You'll make a lasting impression on your new coach in the first two practices. These sessions set the tone for the season and coach's perception of your work ethic, coachability, and overall character. The coach will notice how you handle being the new one, without shrinking, and how well you adapt to the team's dynamic. Your body language between drills, effort during scrimmages, and ability to ask insightful questions will all be evaluated.

What Coaches Notice in the First Two Sessions

Coaches pay close attention to your body language and behavior between drills. Do you stand in a huddle with the team, or do you isolate yourself? Do you ask questions about the drills, or do you just wait for instructions?

Effort During Scrimmages

Coaches evaluate your level of effort during scrimmages. Are you giving 100% or do you seem disengaged? Do you take initiative or wait for others to take charge?

The First-Impression Checklist

Here's a step-by-step protocol to help you make a strong first impression:

1. Arrive early: Get to the practice field or gym with plenty of time to spare. This shows your commitment and respect for the team and coach.
2. Be prepared: Make sure you have all the necessary gear and equipment. Review the previous practice or team meeting notes to be on the same page as the coach and teammates.
3. Listen actively: Pay attention to the coach's instructions and ask questions if you're unsure about something. This demonstrates your willingness to learn and adapt.
4. Stay engaged: Participate fully in drills and scrimmages. Avoid distractions and stay focused on your task at hand.
5. Show initiative: Take the lead in your group or offer to help your teammates. This showcases your leadership skills and teamwork.
6. Be coachable: Accept feedback from the coach and use it to improve. This demonstrates your willingness to learn and grow.
7. Maintain a positive attitude: Keep a positive body language and attitude, even in tough situations. This helps create a positive team dynamic and sets the tone for the season.

Handling Being the New One

It's natural to feel a bit intimidated or uncertain when joining a new team. You might feel like you're on the outside looking in, but there are ways to handle this without shrinking:

• Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask questions about the team, coach, or drills. This shows your willingness to learn and adapt.
• Take initiative: Volunteer for tasks or offer to help your teammates. This showcases your leadership skills and teamwork.
• Be yourself: Be authentic and genuine in your interactions with the team and coach. This helps build trust and rapport.

Building Trust with Your Coach

Trust is built through consistency and reliability. Show up on time, be prepared, and give 100% effort during practices. This will help your coach see you as a valuable member of the team.

If you want to learn more about building trust and creating a winning mentality, check out "The Competition Protocol" by Giannis Notaras.

Next Steps

For more tips on how to handle nerves and stay focused, check out our article on how to stop choking under pressure. To develop a winning mindset and routine, follow our guidance on how to build a pre-game routine. And, to learn more about our training methods and programs, visit our course page.

To make the most of your first two practices, put these tips into action and focus on making a strong first impression.

You'll get better with time and the coach will notice your progress. But, the first two sessions set the tone for the season. Make them count.