Show up to practice and games on time, focused and physically and mentally prepared to excel. Leaders must be an example for those they lead. Participating in college sports activities prepares you for leadership so that when your followers emulate you, they excel.
Congratulate your teammates on their strengths and give them tips to shore up their weaknesses. Leaders must be able to inspire those they lead. By making your teammates feel good about themselves, you build their confidence in their own ability to contribute effectively to the team. Making teammates feel bad about areas of weakness will only cause their weaknesses to grow; instead, encourage them and help them refine and polish their natural ability.
Be open to criticism. Leaders must be open to self-improvement, otherwise they stagnate and will eventually be replaced by someone with a fresh perspective. Care about your team enough to want to be the very best you can be; allow your teammates to help strengthen your weaknesses.
Follow through to the end. Don't quit, even if you feel discouraged. Demonstrate a shining example of faith, resilience and perseverance. Realize that watching you give your all will inspire your teammates to do the same.
Spend your spare time getting better and stronger. Leaders arrive early, leave late and use every moment in between to be informed, prepared and anticipating the next move. If you've involved in college sports activities, keep your body and mind in top shape; recognize that your contribution to the team is only as strong as you are.
Recognize that you owe your success to your team, even if you're the star player. True leaders realize they are servants to to those they lead. Remain humble, aware that your individual greatness is a result of team effort.