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Determination is the willingness to fail in order to succeed and it is an essential characteristic of star athletes and rising star athletes. Many coaches described determination as a combination of commitment, work ethic, and resilience. It is a characteristic, a habit, and a way of life. “It’s a key component to any successful individual,” one coach commented. “I really, really, really love it when I can actually see how much one of my players wants to be successful on the court. As a coach, I am always in awe when I can actually see how much they really want it, and that they’ll work as hard as they need to in order to get what they want. That means they work hard to improve their skills as an individual, and also that they will be an incredible team player.”

“Sports are a challenge to everybody,” another coach responded. “They are always going to challenge you in one way or another. Maybe they will challenge you physically. Or maybe not physical strength, maybe it will test your mental strength. Or maybe it will challenge your independent mindset and help you become a better team member. Or anything like that. However, you can’t let any of that defeat you. Life is full challenges, and if you let that defeat you, you can’t really enjoy things the way you’re meant to.” Coaches of all sports and age ranges tend to agree that determination and facing challenges is necessary in order for an athlete to meet their potential. “Within every player is a well of infinite potential,” one coach confessed. “At least, that’s how I feel personally. I think it will always be up to the athlete to unlock it and go after it. Nobody can do that for them.” By Amanda Howard