Growing up, most athletes have had one of their parents as a coach. But for me, my dad was a coach long before I was born. Because of this, I have learned a few different lessons. Here are seven ways you know that you were a coach's kid:
1. Two sides
When you start playing a game, you always have a coaches outlook in the back of your mind. It is second nature to you to find yourself thinking like a coach during games and not just as a participant.
2. Always recap after each practice and game
When the last buzzer, shot, or inning ends, that does not mean you are done. You spend hours not only after games, but after practices recapping how it went and how to improve.
3. Always on time and prepared
Everyone has heard the saying, "If you are on time, you are late", but for me this was incorrect. Growing up, you were taught that getting to the field thirty minutes early was not considered early, but on time. Oh, and you can't forget that extra bag full of extra clothes you always carried around, just in case that 2% chance of rain, suddenly turned into a 100% percent chance.
3. Known as "Little Coach"
Growing up, you were always present at all of your dad's practices and games and as the seasons progressed, you would be given the nickname, "Little Coach". It is also common for you to be told on a daily basis that you would make a great coach in the future.
4. Always sketching new plays
Growing up you didn't use coloring books when you were bored, you were sketching new plays that you think would work. Your friends would think you were playing tic-tac-toe, but you were really drawing up a new play.
5. Coach's table
You find yourself comfortable sitting at a coaches table. Most people would find it boring to sit at a table filled with coaches, but to you, it is enjoyable. You get to share your love for the game with more people and learn more about the program/sport.
6. Importance of practice
As the season progresses, most athletes get tired of practice. They feel like it's redundant at that point of the season and they may feel like there body is too sore. Growing up a coach's kid, you understand the importance of practice and the benefits it brings when it's competition time.
7. Never thinking there isn't a chance to win
Growing up a coach's kid, you were taught to have that mindset that, no matter what the stats say, or what other people say, you still have a good chance to win. You never go into a game thinking that you have no chance. Anything can happen!
Some people might not like having a parent who is a coach, but growing up a coach's kid was the best experience to me. Thanks dad for all the lessons you have taught me, that not only have made an impact on my athletic career, but also in my life.
