If you want to lead a team of athletes, you must be able to communicate persuasively, gain people’s trust and loyalty, treat people fairly and guide, and mentor people effectively. You also need to possess a desire for power. The power motive in sport as in business is about exerting control over other people—wanting to influence, direct, guide, praise, and discipline people.

Athletes with a high need for power perform best when they are in charge and they have goal-oriented projects and tasks. The power motive is important because it will drive you to want to influence your competitors, your team members, and your sport generally. In order to be a successful team leader, you need to be able and comfortable doing these things whilst exhibiting self-awareness and self-restraint.



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Power Tips
1 Take the role of team captain seriously and develop your understanding of what it takes to be an effective captain.
2 Put the success of the team ahead of your own needs and demonstrate concern for the well-being of team members.
3 Demonstrate your passion for the game by giving 100% every time you train and compete.
4 Be prepared to step up, walk the talk, and set an example for the rest of the team.
5 Talk to your coach, team mates, and past captains to understand what people expect from you as captain.
6 Gain respect by performing consistently during practice, competition, and in team meetings.

What experts say

You need a lot of leaders, but a hockey team needs a voice, not only in the community, but more importantly between the coaching staff and the players. There are always ups and downs in a season. The captain is the guy players look to in those situations.

Joe Sakic Ice Hockey Player

My responsibility is leadership, and the minute I get negative, that is going to have an influence on my team.

Don Shula American Football Coach


Do the SPQ20 and find out where you are on power