Unlocking Joy in Sports: What Motivates Your Players?

Inspired by our book Coaching Better Athletes

Part 1 of a 3 part blog series

Introduction

If you’re coaching youth sports, you’ve seen the spark in an athlete who’s truly invested compared to one just going through the motions. The spark you see in those rare, very special athletes? That comes from joy. Not the joy associated with that fleeting feeling you get from winning a competition or performing well. I’m talking about the type of joy that is associated with a deep love for the game. The type of love that keeps kids coming back, even after a bad performance or a tough loss. Let’s talk about how you can make joy the heartbeat of your team, starting with one key step.

"The spark you see in those rare, very special athletes? That comes from joy. "

Why Their “Why” Matters

Every athlete has a unique reason for showing up. Some chase big dreams like making a varsity squad or receiving a college scholarship. Others thrive on the rush of a perfect play or simply the camaraderie of their team. Regardless of an athlete’s purpose for playing, it’s important you do your best as a coach to understand them. Without knowing them, you’re operating in the dark when coaching them. You're missing out on the chance to develop the type of relationships with your players that will help motivate them to give their best.

How to Find It

The simplest way to begin understanding your players is by asking, “What fires you up about this sport?” or “What do you love about practice?” Then, pay close attention—their eyes light up when they talk about what matters most. For example, one player might geek out over mastering a new skill, while another lives for the intensity of a close match. By discovering these motivations and then tailoring your coaching to them, you create a space where joy can, and will thrive naturally.

Action Steps for Coaches

• Hold a “Why” Huddle: At your next practice, take five minutes for a team chat. Ask each athlete to share one thing they love about the sport, and jot down their answers.

• Personalize Drills: If a player loves skill-building, give them extra reps on a tricky move. For team-driven kids, incorporate partner challenges to boost their vibe.

• Check In Regularly: Revisit their “why” occasionally throughout the season, as motivations can shift. A quick, “What’s keeping you excited?” ensures you stay connected.

The Ripple Effect

Coaching that is aligned with player motivations makes joy contagious. Players who can find their groove within your practice plans will lift their team’s energy. Energy inspires everyone to play harder. When practices sync well with the squad and energy levels are high, your athletes stay engaged, allowing you to inspire a long-term commitment to the game and the culture you wish to create.

"Coaching that is aligned with player motivations makes joy contagious."

Wrap-Up

Joy begins with knowing why your athletes show up. It’s the cornerstone of a team that plays with passion and purpose. At your next practice, start that “why” conversation and watch the energy shift. In Part 2, we’ll explore how to make practice playful and pressure-free to keep that joy burning bright.