Fear and Nerve

“There’s a difference between fear and losing your nerve.” - Cassian in “Andor”

If coaches had a nickel for every time players asked, "who are we playing? Are they good?" Coach Don Meyer said, "It doesn't matter who you play. It matters how you play." 

In 2005, Melrose traveled to Burlington to play the Red Devils, who featured three boys 6'3" or above. Boys were not allowed to play front row, but Coach Scott Celli waived that rule. Melrose prevailed with Paula Sen stuff blocking one on consecutive plays. It matters how you play. 

Melrose and Masconomet squared off at Tsongas Arena in the sectional basketball finals in 2006. Both teams were 22-0. I asked a player when she knew Melrose would win. "In the tunnel, before the game. We were dancing; they were shaking." 

Coach Celli and his staff will put you in position to succeed. It's your task to put the team first, do your job, and attend to details. You can only be as good as you believe in yourselves. 

Bill Parcells said, "Confidence comes from proven success." You have the receipts. Bring them. 

Lagniappe. Use positive stock with affirmations.