Double-Days

Dear Coach,

The days of double-days bring back a lot of memories.

Early mornings.

Late afternoons.

Drill after drill.

Rep after rep.

Sweat, soreness, exhaustion, and the hope that maybe just maybe the coach would notice all the hard work you were putting in.

As athletes, we often think coaches are only watching when we’re performing.

They’re not.

They’re watching everything.

They’re watching how you respond when things don’t go your way.

They’re watching your effort.

They’re watching your attitude.

They’re watching your body language.

And body language tells a story.

When you’re frustrated, they notice.

When you stop competing, they notice.

When you encourage a teammate, they notice.

When you keep working despite adversity, they notice.

Coaches may forget a score.

They may forget a specific play.

But they rarely forget patterns.

They remember the athletes who consistently show up.

They remember the athletes who compete regardless of circumstances.

They remember the athletes who bring positive energy when things are hard.

Most coaches have a mental list.

Not just of the most talented players, but of the players they can trust.

The players who make the team better.

The players who show what they value through their actions.

That’s why double-days aren’t for the weak.

They’re for athletes who choose to be there.

Athletes who are willing to do the hard things when nobody is cheering.

Now, let’s be honest.

Not every coach will notice.

Not every coach will care.

I’ve had coaches like that.

I’ve had bosses like that.

Some people say they care, but their actions tell a different story.

That’s life.

But here’s the lesson:

Don’t let someone else’s inability to see your value determine how you show up.

Represent your values.

Represent your work ethic.

Represent your character.

Because the habits you build through sports will follow you into every area of your life.

One day you’ll be an employee.

A leader.

A parent.

A coach.

A business owner.

And the discipline, resilience, and consistency you develop now will matter far more than one coach’s opinion.

Most importantly, protect your confidence.

Confidence doesn’t come from playing time.

It doesn’t come from praise.

It comes from knowing you gave your best effort regardless of the outcome.

That’s something nobody can take away from you unless you give them permission.

Keep showing up.

Keep working.

Keep competing.

The right people will notice.

And even when they don’t, you’ll still be building the person you’re becoming.

Sincerely,

The Show Up Athlete