Dos and Don'ts

All opinions expressed in the blog are solely my own. They don't represent those of the City of Melrose, the School Department, Melrose High School, or the Melrose Athletic Department.

Tryouts are just around the corner. Be physically and mentally prepared. 

Hit the ground running. Tryouts aren't for conditioning. Don't get ready. Be ready. Conditioning is your responsibility. 

Be a great teammate. Choose collaboration.

"Leave the jersey in a better place." - James Kerr, in Legacy  "Culture beats strategy for breakfast." Fight for your culture every day. 

"Cross the red line." When you cross the red line onto the court, be stretched out, fired up, and ready to go.

"Keep the ball up." The ball doesn't hit the ground when defenders talk. Talk intimidates. "Silent teams lose."

Mentor younger teammates. "Mentoring is the only shortcut to excellence." 

Everyone leads. Be on time. Never be a distraction. Excel in your role, regardless of the amount of playing time. 

"Don't cheat the drill." Be fully engaged and go full-tilt, full time. You earn your paycheck - minutes, role, and recognition. 

"Have a growth mindset." You can be as good as you work. Learn every day. Pick the brains of your coaches and experienced teammates.

Lagniappe. "Form begets function." Study the video and study video of your serve - your routine, toss, and swing. 

Lagniappe 2. "Serving is critical."