“Mean no offense, take no offense.” This is a mantra that my team says before every practice and every game that we play. It means that when you give teammate feedback, you should say it meaning no personal offense and that the receiver should take it nonpersonal. Remember, you're both working towards the same goals and you have to do it together. 

Related: Rate your Coaches, Facilities, and Campus Visits

This goes for conversations with your coach as well. Remember that when a coach criticizes you, they almost always have your best interests at heart. Criticism is also not necessarily bad-it means that your coach cares enough about your development as a player to invest in your potential. So don't take offense when you get constructive feedback–use it to level up your game. 

Have an idea for a story or a question you need answered? Want to set up an interview with us? Email us at [email protected]

* Originally published on October 17, 2022, by Christie Ackendorf