Have you ever noticed the laser focus of top players? They are engaged at all times, during practice, matches and training, to ensure the highest level of success. Engaged players should have their full focus directed on what matters in that particular moment and be invested in their own success.

Engaged players embody the following:

“The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus”

“Always remember, your focus determines your reality”

“Don’t count the days, make the days count”

TO BE ENGAGED IS TO:

• Have full focus in the moment. Have all of your senses involved and be alert.
• Have the right mindset, developed from solid preparation.
• Have a goal or two for practice that relates to part of your game that needs improvement.
• Think about your goals prior to practice and see in your mind’s eye achieving them.
• Talk with your coach about the plan for the training/practice/match.
• Have a good dynamic warm-up, getting the body and mind awake and ready and the heart rate up.
• Get your feet going by bouncing around on your toes.
• Listen to your coach and ask questions if you are not sure about his/her instruction.
• Try your coach’s feedback.
• Give yourself feedback on how you are doing on your goals.
• Have a bounce in your step and move quickly between drills or balls.
• Be fully prepared for each drill or game and know the goal and what you are working on.
• Refocus on the purpose of practice during short breaks, even if there are distractions.
• Use the “breathe and believe” technique when things aren’t going well.
• Write in a journal about your goals and how you did in working on them.
• Learn from your mistakes.
• Look your coach in the eye when talking.

EXAMPLE

Rafael Nadal is renowned for his work ethic and his focus in practice. He runs for every ball in practice and works diligently on his game. You can imagine he does some of the drills that you do, such as two on ones, but does them with a very high level of engagement. He knows what he is working on and works with a high intensity. As Player Development Director of Coaching Jose Higueras said, “Rafa works with every cell in his body immersed in what he is doing.”