If you want the coach to feel appreciated for giving their time and effort, say “thank you” after each practice.
If you want the coach to go beyond their call of duty, say “thank you” in your public acknowledgment.
If you want the tournament director to feel appreciated for their time and effort in putting the tournament together, say “thank you” at the end of the tournament.
If you want the tournament director to really remember you, send them a “thank you” email or a “thank you” card.
Getting a gift and saying “thank you” is heartfelt. But when you go out of your way to say “thank you” it brings on a whole different dynamic. It shows your appreciation and gratitude for their effort, their time and energy, their sacrifices. It’s about caring and connecting on the same plain, not superiority.
In the midst of pursuing excellence and outdoing the competitors, it is easy to forget to show appreciation and gratitude towards the people in the circle of influence. Forgetting does not make the athlete a bad person but it cannot be overlooked and use it as an excuse.
Moms and dads, this lesson starts at home. Check with your star athletes if they are saying their “thank you” on a daily basis. Don’t just assume.
