That Girl

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Feb 3, 2010
5,752
113
Pac NW
Here's a chat I give to my players and parents--I call it "THAT Girl." I begin by explaining that there's two kinds of players, then follow the this general outline:

You all know "THAT Girl." She's always...
-Late to practice, but walks from the parking lot
-Gives 75% effort at practice, most of the time
-Talks behind other's backs,
-Cliques up,
-Bad mouths her parents,
-Makes excuses, or blames others,
-Is known by other teams, coaches, parents and umps as being unsportman-like,
-Pops a 'tude when she makes a bad play and shuts down,
-Pops a 'tude when another player makes a mistake, or coach tells her _____, or the umpire makes a call she doesn't like
-Etc...


Then there's "THE Girl" (or ______.) "THE Girl" always:
-Arrives early or stays late to work on skills,
-Willing to help out a teammate to spend extra time on skills
-Thanks her mother/father openly
-First to help set up or haul gear
-Runs from the parking lot to practice or games in those rare times when she's late (apologizes/no excuses given)
-Cheers and encourages her teammates--even from the bench
-Gives 110% effort; 100 % of the time.
-Is known by other teams, coaches, parents and umps as a pleasure to have on the field

In summary, I suggest that a team with 1-2 players (or parents or coaches) who are "THAT Girl," will most likely be known as "THAT Team." However, group of individuals striving to be known as "THE Girl," will eventually be known as "THE Team."


As a parent, coach and umpire, one of my favorite times is when I hear compliments from other parents, players, coaches or officials about the positive nature of our teams. Hearing these folks talk about my child, team, coach or parents; "its always a pleasure," or "thank you for being so positive," is worth as much as a well earned win. Maybe more...
 
Last edited:
Jul 16, 2013
4,659
113
Pennsylvania
Excellent post Ken! I am a huge fan of DFP. The information that is shared on this site is truly mind-blowing. I am amazed by the detail that is offered in the hitting and pitching forums, and I truly consider much of that information to be second to none. However, posts like this go well beyond just mechanics and more towards the example that we should be setting as coaches and parents. Top 10 post in my humble opinion!
 
Feb 7, 2013
3,188
48
I have noticed that "That Girl" tends to rear its ugly head around 12U and beyond :) Where did those sweet and helpful players at 6U, 8U, & 10U go?
 
May 7, 2008
8,506
48
Tucson
You almost said this one, but I am watching a young lady that left one team, with her coach dad, because of the way she treated him. Now, I see that he is coaching her team, again.

"Do not run down your dad (mom), especially when they are coaching you."
 

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