A Knack for Talent

Finding the Elite Performer

Terrific coaches have a knack for talent evaluation. There are fundamental attributes that elite performers exhibit. It goes well beyond physical ability. For sustainable production, coaches must hone in on these key elements to determine who belongs on the playing field. Certain players know how to perform and can execute when called upon. We must identify who the playmakers are and place them in a position to execute.

Figure out who performs at a high level no matter the circumstance. See those that have a purpose in their eyes and toughness in spirit, who are not easily deterred. They are hardened by their failures and remain persistent. Players who have a backbone and stand for what is good. Those individuals should display unconditional love for their team and show heart. Teams can lean into and trust these people.

Imagination

In my time as a coach, the best players were creative. They understood the intricacies and used imagination to create. By thinking outside of the box, the game came to life. It’s as if they knew something others didn’t. They were able to come in the side door, while others came in the front. Vision for the alternative approach allowed certain individuals to outperform the opponent.

A creative strategy allows energy to flow freely. This energy sparks life into a program. I can recall countless times I’ve seen supremely creative players energize a practice or game with one exciting play. It is where momentum originates and inspires others. It creates an energy field that grows into a manifestation of victory. The greater by-product of the big play.

Energy Fields

Energy is also created in the locker room, meetings, and huddles. A creative idea or word of encouragement adds to the energy field. A moment of timely comedy can bring a room to life. Elite players attempt to add a positive charge to the given environment. They understand that there is something larger at work and that energy is always affecting outcomes. The elite performer has a constant state of self-awareness. They are always taking an inventory of their current state. These players can understand where they’re currently at physically, emotionally, and competitively.

The book Raise Your Game by Alan Stein Jr., discusses the concept of “closing the performance gaps.” Superior athletes know what needs to be done and act upon that knowledge. They actively close the gap between ideal performance and their current state. By “closing the performance gaps,” great players unconsciously permit others to close their personal gaps. They are contributing to the positive energy field and building team culture.

Coachability

Culture is the overall energy of an active space. Coachability contributes to the energy of team culture. Premier players welcome critical feedback. They understand that it is the vehicle to personal betterment and helps to “close the performance gaps.”

Coachability includes:

Listening
Body Language
Eye Contact
Receptive Dialouge
Actively Attempting to Change Behavior
Teaching Others to Reinforce Learned Behavior
Contributing to Positive Energy
Question Asking
Extinguishment of Pride

When less experienced performers can witness coachability in veterans, they too take on this behavior. Coaches should reinforce and celebrate this. When the coachable outweigh the uncoachable, terrific culture and victory manifest. At this point, it’s easy to have a knack for talent.