article by C.J. Aragon, 2010 NIRA Coach-of-the-Year, Odessa College Rodeo Coach
Each year as the college rodeo season starts, we ask our students to step up their game and improve. As coaches we want to see studen
ts be successful, we want to see them improve, and we want to see them compete at a higher level. This is what is so exciting about the beginning of the season to see how much students can improve.
Most Coaches know, and have a feel for the talent level of students and will ask students to do things that will help them reach their potential. However some of the most improved students each year are not the most talented on the roster. The most improved students are usually the ones with the best attitude, and willing to make a daily commitment to improving.
Some students have a great attitude and embrace the challenge presented to them by their coaches. These are the students that set high goals for themselves and are willing to work hard to reach their goals. They are willing and excited to work hard in practice every day. These are the students that coaches love to have in any sport. These type of students have made a commitment to themselves, their team and their coaches and are willing to do what is needed to be successful. They may not be the most talented but these students usually rise to the top fairly quickly.
These type have a “Can do attitude.” When you get these type of students you are excited to see them grow and reach their potential.
On the other hand there are students who will tell coaches “I can’t.” When the talent is there and students say “I can’t” do that what is simply means is that the student simply will not make the commitment and put forth the effort to reach their potential. Their attitude has determined their potential and how much they can improve. These students will rely on their talent and usually will not work hard consistently in practice. Their attitude will go farther in determining their success than their talent.
The attitude and commitment is a critical determining factor in your success in any sport. Students with a great attitude and a commitment to improve will be easier to coach, and work harder to be successful.
It is much easier to coach a student with a great attitude and a commitment to improve.
Too many students come to college relying on their talent. Students who have a positive attitude, a commitment to improve and a good work ethic the will find their way to the top over those with talent and a poor attitude.
Your attitude may be one of the most essential keys to your success. Make sure you have a good one.
C.J. Aragon was named the 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 Grand Canyon Region Coach-of-the-Year. 2014, 2015 WJCAC Coach-of-the-Year and 2010 National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association Coach-of-the-Year.
