Transferring to a new team or school can be an exciting but also nerve-wracking experience for athletes. Whether you are a current athlete considering a transfer or a potential transfer student, it is important to do your due diligence and ask your new coaches the right questions to ensure a successful transition.
Here are seven questions athletes should consider asking their new coaches before transferring.
1. What is the team culture like?
Understanding the team culture is crucial to fitting in and succeeding with your new team. Ask your new coaches about the team's values, traditions, and expectations for athletes on and off the field.
2. What is the coaching philosophy?
It is important to understand the coaching style and philosophy of your new coaches, as this can impact your playing time, role on the team, and overall success. Ask about their coaching philosophy, approach to training and development, and expectations for players.
3. What is the team's playing style?
Different teams have different playing styles, and it is important to understand how you fit into the team's style of play. Ask your new coaches about the team's strategy, tactics, and style of play, and how you can contribute to the team's success.
4. What are the team's goals and expectations for the season?
Understanding the team's goals and expectations can help you set your own goals and expectations for the season. Ask your new coaches about their expectations for the team's performance, and how you can contribute to achieving those goals.
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5. What is the team's competition like?
It is important to understand the level of competition in your new league or conference, and how your team compares to other teams in the region. Ask your new coaches about the team's competition, and how they plan to prepare the team for challenging opponents.
6. What is the team's training and nutrition plan?
Understanding the team's training and nutrition plan is crucial to maintaining your physical health and performing at your best. Ask your new coaches about their approach to training, conditioning, and nutrition, and how they plan to support your development as an athlete.
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7. What support services are available to athletes?
From academic support to mental health resources, it is important to understand what support services are available to athletes on your new team. Ask your new coaches about the support services available to athletes, and how you can access these resources.
In conclusion, transferring to a new team or school can be a great opportunity for athletes to grow and develop, but it is important to ask the right questions to ensure a successful transition. By understanding the team culture, coaching philosophy, playing style, goals and expectations, competition, training and nutrition plan, and support services available to athletes, you can make an informed decision about your new team and set yourself up for success.
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* Originally published on May 29, 2023, by Amanda Fassold
