Set In My Ways: The Truth About Changing Positions
Dear Durable Minds,
My coach has me playing a different position. He didn’t tell me why. He just said that he needed me to move into the new position starting at today’s practice. I love my current position and I am not happy with the change. -Set In My Ways
"Change is inevitable, growth is optional." - J. Maxwell
Dear Set In My Ways [SIMW],
I feel as though you are perceiving this change as a punishment as opposed to an opportunity. In the early stages of development, a coach will move a player[s] around to determine their strengths and where they perform best. Later in one's career, the decision to move an athlete is based on strategy and tactics. A coach may pivot using a utility player in order to create the strongest offense or defense for a given situation.
I have run into this scenario many times when working with individuals. The common reason for the feeling of frustration is often related to lack of competency and insufficient time spent in the secondary or tertiary position, compared to the comfort within their primary role.
Ask the coach if they are willing to explain why they are making the switch.
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
You do not have control over the decision to move you to a different position however, you DO have control as to how you prepare. Let's walk through an exercise using an example of a baseball player who is being asked to move from catcher to third base:
Make a list with five column example below.
Column 1: write down what remains the same for each position.
Columns 2 & 3: write down the differences between each position
Column 4: write down any resources necessary to ensure success in the new position
Column 5: write down any support necessary to ensure success in the new position
Set a time with those identified in the support column, to review your needs.
Remember that last minute changes in position may reduce or eliminate any preparation time for your newly assigned role. However, after the event, use this exercise with your coach[es] to ensure preparedness for future positional changes.
Example: Format can be used for any sport and any position change
Change can be hard and scary for some athletes. Here are a few reminders:
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Be sure to anticipate situational needs and prepare them to the best of your ability. Even if in the middle of event, try to give them a few minutes to physically and mentally prepare.
When a change is inevitable, remind the athlete they were chosen to serve in the new role for a reason. Become their raving fan immediately!
Let them know how you are going to support them before, during and after an event.
If they are not already aware of the above exercise [see grid], share it with them so that they feel they have ownership in the process, despite the change being out of their control.
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Become a raving fan of the opportunity! Even if you don't believe in the change being made, there is a reason for the decision which also is out of your control. Do not feed your athlete's anxiety it only ensures they move deeper into threat mode.
Ask your athlete how you can support them best during this transition and then follow up by making a verbal commitment to your athlete's request which may be anything from helping to purchase necessary equipment to reminding them how proud you are of them managing the change.