What a Good Captain Does

1. A good captain must observe team rules. If a coach has a rule on alcohol, smoking, or curfew, a captain must show leadership by following these rules.

2. A good captain must be in proper condition. It is difficult for a coach to motivate other team members if the captain is not physically fit. (THIS MEANS OFF SEASON CONDITIONING)

3. A good captain NEVER, and I mean never, back stabs.

4. A good captain will be a team sounding board, and in this role, help direct the thinking of his teammates toward positive channels.

5. A good captain cares about the feelings of every team member, and takes special care to acknowledge the contributions of those on the bench. While a good captain can certainly have close friends on the team, he cannot promote the notion of cliques.

6. A good captain must realize (and perhaps you should tell your captain) that physical skill will not necessarily result in good leadership skills. In order to be a good captain, a youngster must also devote attention to developing the non-physical leadership skills.

7. A good captain must be at his best in the tough times - and remember that this is when the coach and team really need his leadership.