Captain qualifications:
Is a senior
Has been on the team for at least 1 full season
No infringement of MNHSL student eligibility laws
Formal leadership structures:
2-3 Senior captains
Unity council
Middle school - 1 member
9th grade - 1 member
10th grade - 1 member
11th grade - 1-2 members
12th grade - 1-2 members
**numbers may be flexible in order to ensure diver representation
Defining Roles: Senior vs. Captain
Senior
Pre-Season
Pick out apparel
Advertise pre-season meeting to returning and prospective athletes
In-Season
As a class, run culture (formally captains’) practices
2-3 practices before school starts
Function as a positive role model for younger athletes through the season through your actions and words
Captain
Pre-Season
No additional responsibilities apart from Senior responsibilities
In-Season
Choose theme of the year
Coordinate one or more volunteer opportunities or service projects that help our team give back to our community
Choose big/little sisters for the season
Run team social media
More expectations listed below:
Picture of a captain:
Strong leader by example: ensure that we take care of each other and our space while working hard and working together
Work hard: demonstrate high level of commitment to effort, focus, habits within the sport and in school
Be coachable: respond to constructive feedback in stride, always strive to improve upon small things, reflect on one’s actions and personal effect on the team
Be positive: seek to lift up teammates daily, give compliments, face setbacks and disappointments with a constructive attitude, be kind to self and others
Strong vocal leader: denounce gossip and use voice to create a positive team environment, positively hold all teammates accountable
Strong communication skills: communicate team temperature with coaches and report on how training, team culture, and fellow teammates are doing. Coordinate with coaches regarding event planning in advance to communicate with the team as a whole.
Roles and responsibilities:
Be on time to all team practices and team functions (at least 5-10 minutes early)
Promote a positive attitude and positive team interactions - every day
Provide a positive role model concerning commitment, intensity, confidence, response to mistakes, composure, hustle, and a “team first” focus
Be willing to be direct hold teammates accountable for their on-and-off deck behaviors
Work closely with and be the “point-person” for the head coach
Encourage and support all teammates
Lead the team throughout the season (in good and bad times)
Ensure pool deck is clean after every practice and meet (no garbage, equipment is organized and put away)
Perform other related team duties (as needed or requested by the coaching staff)