Leadership Goes Beyond Captaincy

Leaders come in all sizes and leadership comes in many forms. While the title of “Captain” may seem the be all, end all on some teams, it is not a prerequisite for a good leader. Some sports league websites put more responsibility in the hands of the team captain, which is not unfounded, but every member of the team - especially those with more experience - should have an opportunity to become a leader and role model for the newer or younger players.

Kids can get disappointed if they aren’t named captain, or feel they are somehow less important. But here are a few ways for them to step in and take responsibility even without the official title.

Be a representative

Sometimes, young players feel they do not have the same voice as the senior athletes. As a result, they can be downtrodden, concerned, upset or have some issue and never reach a resolution. That isn’t good for the player or the team and should be avoided at all costs. Because the non-captains do not have the same type of authority, players may be more inclined to confide in them. In this way, a good leader will listen to the concerns of incoming players and use his or her status as an established team member to bring it up with the coach or captain.

Be an example

In some unfortunate cases, the best player is automatically rewarded the captaincy regardless of the other necessary factors like leadership and citizenship. In this case, it is necessary for other players to rise to the occasion and show younger players how to behave even if you aren’t the best player. Every team member plays a role and should know that talent is not the only - or even most important - aspect of a teammate. Especially for the players at the end of the bench, it is important that someone offers them a role model and shows them the need to be a team player even in the absence of playing time.

Be a friend

Leadership extends beyond the field of play. Nothing builds team chemistry better than developing camaraderie outside the field or practice facility. Every player has an equal opportunity to organize team dinners, outings, or any activity that brings everyone together. That way, when the practice or game rolls around, everyone will be on an even playing field.

As a coach, your job is to instill a sense of responsibility in every player and you can use your sports team website to do just that.