Ten ways to earn more playing time from the bench

Being a bench player on a sports team can be a challenging position, but it's also an opportunity for growth and a chance to prove yourself. Earning more playing time throughout the season requires dedication, hard work, and a strategic approach. In this blog post, we'll discuss various strategies that can help bench players increase their playing time and make a significant impact on the team.

1. Work Hard in Practice

Show your commitment and determination by putting in extra effort during practices. Work on improving your skills, understanding the team's strategies, and demonstrating your value during drills and scrimmages.

2. Be a Positive Team Player

Maintain a positive attitude on and off the field. Encourage your teammates, support their successes, and stay engaged during games, even if you're not playing. Coaches appreciate players who contribute to a positive team culture.

3. Study the Game:

Invest time in studying your sport. Analyze the team's performance, learn about opposing teams, and understand the strategies and techniques employed in the game. Knowledge is a powerful tool that can help you contribute more effectively when you get the opportunity to play.

4. Build Strong Relationships

Foster good relationships with your coaches and teammates. Communicate openly, seek feedback, and show your willingness to learn and improve. A strong rapport can lead to increased playing time as coaches gain trust in your abilities. It’s important to have good relationships with your teammates because they can help go to bat for you as well.

5. Be Versatile

Work on being versatile in your position and skills. The more positions you can competently play, the more valuable you become to the team. Adaptability and flexibility can lead to increased opportunities to contribute in different game situations.

6. Showcase Your Dedication

Demonstrate your commitment to the team by attending optional workouts, engaging in offseason training, and maintaining your fitness levels. Coaches take notice of players who show dedication beyond the regular season.

7. Stay Patient and Persistent

Understand that earning more playing time may take time. Stay patient, keep working hard, and seize every opportunity to showcase your abilities when given the chance. Persistence and resilience can pay off in the long run.

8. Communicate with Coaches

Schedule regular check-ins with your coaches to discuss your progress, seek advice, and understand their expectations. Clear communication shows your eagerness to improve and contributes to a stronger coach-player relationship.

9. Display a Strong Work Ethic

Exhibit a strong work ethic by arriving early, staying late, and putting in the extra effort during training sessions. Coaches value players who consistently give their best and display a strong sense of discipline.

10. Don’t quit

No matter how little time you seem to be getting in matches/games, stay positive and keep putting in the work. All the little things add up. Take advantage of all the FREE STUFF in your sport. Put in the extra work on your own time to get better. Watch more matches/games. Anything you can do to get better- DO NOT QUIT, YOU CAN DO IT!

Earning more playing time as a bench player requires a combination of hard work, dedication, versatility, and a positive attitude. By demonstrating your commitment to the team, staying persistent, and continuously improving your skills, you can increase your chances of securing a more significant role on the field. Remember, every moment is an opportunity to showcase your talent and prove your worth to the team.