What should I do to establish myself as a leader on my swimming team?

Question

Next year I will be a Sophmore in high school. My swimming team is going through some changes and I would like to be a leader on the team to help it through this. I am probably the fastest if not one of the fastest, swimmers on the team. I want my teammates to look up to me and respect me and feel that they can come to me with their concerns and questions. What should i do to cause this to happen?

Answer 1

Listen before you give any advice, and definitely listen more than you talk.

Lead by helping.  Lead by being concerned.

Praise effort.

Stand by people when they are down.

Talk to people about problems privately, not in front of the group.

Answer 2

The best team leader/team captain could be the slowest person on the team, so don't rely on your abilities in the pool to earn a leadership position -- that could alienate your slower team members. Here are some things I can think of:

-- Attend all practices with a positive attitude.

-- Encourage ALL other team members during workouts.

-- Do things that draw the team together (lead cheers, host team meals).

-- Show an interest in team members' lives away from the pool (somebody having a rough time at home may need a little extra support)

-- Develop a civil relationship with everyone on the coaching staff, no matter how bumpy things get.

-- Never say anything about a coach or team mate that you wouldn't say to their face.

Answer 3

i will be a sophmore next year too!

encourage your team mates during hard sets, cheer for them at meets, and do stuff with them outside of swimming.

never complain, this shows weekness witch isnt demonstrating leadership!!!! and always make the intervals.

and dont bad mouth anybody on the team or your coaches.  not a good idea.

good luck!