Winning the Long Game: The Power of Respect, Relationships, and Readiness
coach note James Leath coach note James Leath

Winning the Long Game: The Power of Respect, Relationships, and Readiness

True greatness in athletics isn’t solely defined by physical achievements or trophies on a shelf—it’s built on a foundation of respect, deep relationships, and the readiness to face every challenge with resilience. The real champions are those who cultivate their character alongside their strength, who understand that winning the long game means leaving a legacy of integrity and impact. By focusing on respect, nurturing meaningful connections, and maintaining unwavering readiness, athletes transform themselves—not just for the game, but for life.

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coach note James Leath coach note James Leath

I learned it from watching you!

Young athletes are not adults and do not have the life experience to be held to the expectation of being able to control their emotions. Sports give a student-athlete a controlled environment to learn how to manage feelings and emotions; the coach as the teacher. That teaching is one of the biggest lessons a coach can teach an athlete under their supervision.

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The Zipper Phenomena
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The Zipper Phenomena

This week, look for situations in practice, competition, or life where the child is struggling. Let them struggle a bit before you intervene (so long as it is safe), and the payoff will outweigh the struggle.

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The Gift of Struggle
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The Gift of Struggle

A man once tried to help a struggling butterfly out of its chrysalis by slitting it open. A beautiful butterfly emerged, but its wings were tiny and not yet fully formed. Since the process was prematurely interrupted, the butterfly could never fly. Trying to shortcut the process and help, the man instead doomed the creature. The struggle is necessary for the butterfly, as it is for us.

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Girl Push-ups

Your words matter. Your influence is strong. What you tell your athletes will echo in their minds for the rest of their lives. Chose your words carefully. 

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no rewards, only consequences
coach note James Leath coach note James Leath

no rewards, only consequences

Like many elementary and middle school athletes, I had the same coach through different sports a couple of years in a row. My coach was an athletic renaissance man who knew a lot about many things, especially sports. Most of his teachings were through stories that may or may not have been true about his athletic past, and he was a master at using metaphors.

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The Art of the Handshake
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The Art of the Handshake

With the start of a new season or class, regardless of the sport or subject, I start with the same lesson. This is an example of how I do it. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed living it. 

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