UNIQUE AND CREATIVE WAYS TO MOTIVATE YOUR

PLAYERS IN THE OFF SEASON

Amber L. Warners, Ph.D.Calvin College

Introduction

Division III Creative Dissatisfied Preseason injuries Motivate More accountability

…THE IDEA

Calvin College Volleyball MIAA Workout Challenge

9 Challenges Creation of challenges Rules Every player Testing schedule Attempts Injured players?

9 Challenges

Core Nutrition Sense of membership Aerobic conditioning Agility Balance/ankle strength Volleyball specific Anaerobic Individual reflection

Trine Bridge Run

Process

Accountability Partners/mentoring Training for challenges Challenges evolve over time Specific for each team

Misc. Information

Difficulties Time factors Examples Positive reinforcement Player feedback Trainer feedback

Player Feedback

Motivation Scared…in a good way Sense of accomplishment Had to push myself harder than I

ever thought I could – transferred to playing on court

Bond immediately with teammates – misery loves company

Sets the tone for season

Results

Fewer injuries Psychological advantage before

conference started Better physical shape = doing

more on the court earlier Sense of accomplishment and

confidence

Questions?