The start of a new season brings with it a renewed sense of anticipation and excitement about what lies ahead. As coaches, preparing to head into your first practice or competition is a great time to assess where your team stands and what you hope to achieve during the new season. As a Champion coach, each season should start with goal setting. This should include coaches, athletes and the team as a whole. Watch the short video above to see what Play Like a Champion Program Director Kristin Sheehan and veteran coach Rich Hoyt have to say about goal setting, then consider how you will help your team to set goals in the upcoming (or current) season.

Remember to set physical , mental and character (moral) goals for the coming year as well as both individual athlete and team goals. Consider setting SMART goals by using this simple worksheet . Give the athletes ownership by involving them in the process, then emphasize effort and persistence while athletes strive to reach their goals. Remember that the Cardinal Virtue that goes with goal setting is Fortitude !