Confidence breeds concentration and relaxation

It seems simple. Coaches want their players to concentrate and relax. Confidence is the way to get this immediately. So, how do we do this?

Well, the player could certainly help the cause by playing well. Playing well promotes confidence. But, what if a player is struggling? How do you create that needed confidence that ultimately allows a player to concentrate and relax?

For one- hard work! Hard work on the practice field creates a certain entitlement to that player that makes that player feel that he deserves success. Outwork your opponent and their is a definite feeling that you belong and you have the right to have success.

The other thing that coaches can do is to put their players in positions to succeed. Take baby steps and let the player feel good about their situation before asking them to do too much. Give them a hit and run and make them swing the bat and hit the ball on the ground. Give them a sacrifice bunt and make them at least have a productive at bat. Bring that pitcher in to face the bottom of the order in a not so significant inning.

Coaches must understand how confidence affects a players performance. Now, the coach can only do so much to instill that confident feeling. But, understanding how confidence affects performance puts the coach ahead of the game.