It’s game time. You’ve improved your game in the off-season. You’ve built up your strength and stamina. And now it’s showtime. But what’s going to be different this year? Have you set your goals accordingly? Maybe it was that you weren’t going to cheat on any preseason drills. Maybe you were going to be more prepared. Know your role. Know your teammates’ roles.In the end, it’s all about getting better. But as you prepare for the start of a new season, Dan Bonner and Bob Rathbun say it’s not only important to be the best you can be, but also to know how you fit into the team as a whole.

Their advice: Regardless of your role, don’t ever delude yourself into thinking that your role isn’t a significant part of the big picture.

For example, if your goal was to be a starter and you’re not, understand when and where your contributions will be needed. “Just because you are not one of the first five on the court doesn’t mean your role is any less significant,” Bonner says. “Whether you’re the coach, a player or the team manager, everybody contributes when a team wins. And while your role may change over time, it doesn’t make it any less consequential.”

If you ask the North Carolina Tar Heels to name their most valuable player from last year, you may hear the name Marcus Ginyard. As you may recall, Ginyard was hurt and missed the remainder of the season.

“There are all kinds of examples of players who are leaders, some, like Ginyard, who don’t even have to play,” Rathbun says. “Good players are the ones who direct the spirit and direction of a team, and not just score the most points.”

When it all comes together – when all the personalities mesh into one – you have a winning team. “Every team needs players who can score points,” Bonner says. “But you also need players who can play defense and grab rebounds. Everything must click to be successful.”

Your role: Find out how you fit in and make it work. OC



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