What are the main things a junior player should be trying to do every time he or she plays a game?

Here is a list of the rules I have come up with from my experience as a coach. Every team will have its own set of rules. This list is just a start. Remember rules require discipline. Playing with discipline will contribute to success at any level.

1. Do everything with no wasted time or effort. This can be applied to every task associated with playing the game. From packing your kit prior to leaving home to unpacking your kit once you have returned home. Some specific things that should be done efficiently are:

1. Moving between overs – directly, at a jog and without pausing for chats.

2. Getting the ball back to the bowler – through the field, underarm where possible, concentrate on the throw and the catch. Leave the shining of the ball to the bowler.

3. Padding up and Un-Padding – make sure you can put your hands on all your batting kit easily and always pad up when you are 2^nd man to come (i.e. if you are number six in the order you pad up when the second wicket falls). When you are out or the innings is closed, pack your batting kit away as you take it off. Then you always know where it is and no-one can pick your gear up thinking it is their own.

4. Drinks, Lunch and Tea Breaks – always know who is providing what and what you have to supply yourself. Make sure all this is organized before the warm-up starts so that you are not distracted, and you don’t distract others, once the game is underway. Always have your own food and drink ready and accessible. Do not leave it with a parent. This slows down the process of getting a drink and once again can be distracting. You should be able to access a drink at any time during the day easily and without having to rely upon anyone else.

5. Warming Up – have a routine that you can move through with little or no supervision. The captain and coach will have things they need to do prior to play commencing and so if you can warm up without their direction, everyone is a winner.

2. Identify the “One-Percenters”. The one percenters are those little things that when added together can make a real difference between success and failure. Things like always running the first run as hard as you can; always walking in in the field; always backing up in the field and always stretching before and after training and games. Most people do these thing some of the time and some people do these things most of the time. The only way not to get caught out is to do these things every time!

3. Learn from every game. Make a point of reviewing what has taken place during a days play. Involve your coach and parents where possible and write down the things you learnt that day. Constantly add to this list and regularly go back through your list to make sure lessons learnt are not forgotten!

4. Make things easy for your Coach and Captain. Pay attention when they are talking. Don’t distract others and try to do as you are asked in every situation – regardless of how you might feel about their instructions. They have the responsibility of leading your team. They are doing their best to make you successful. Respect them and do as you are asked. You will be surprised at how often things work out well when everyone is heading in the same direction!

5. Enjoy the experience. Remember that no matter how you are performing, you are having an experience that lots of other players your age would love to be having. Enjoy the opportunity to learn more about yourself, your talents and your friends. Enjoy the opportunity to be active and outside playing. Enjoy the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and enjoy the contest.

Try and think of some other rules that might help your team be a happier and more successful one!

And when you have a good idea: Share it!

image credit: doogsta