Are You a Coachable Athlete?

In cheerleading — and in life — talent will only take you so far. What truly sets great athletes apart is their attitude and coachability. You can have all the skill in the world, but if you’re not willing to listen, learn, and adapt, your growth will stall. On the flip side, a positive and open mindset can elevate you and your entire team.

Why Attitude Matters

• Good Attitude = Growth: A positive outlook fuels effort, consistency, and resilience. It allows athletes to push through corrections and challenges, turning setbacks into comebacks.

• Bad Attitude = Roadblock: Negativity, eye rolls, or arguing with corrections not only slow down your progress — they drag down the energy of the entire team. A bad attitude is contagious, and it can ruin the chemistry needed to succeed together.

Taking Corrections Is Smart

Athletes who embrace feedback understand something important: corrections are not criticism, they’re opportunities. When a coach takes time to adjust your motion, timing, or tumbling, they’re helping you reach your highest potential. Every correction is a shortcut to improvement. Ignoring it is like choosing the hard, slow road.

What It Means to Be Coachable

Being coachable is about more than just nodding when your coach speaks. It’s about:

• Listening the first time

• Making adjustments quickly

• Asking questions to understand, not to argue

• Trusting your coaches’ experience and knowledge

• Supporting teammates when they’re corrected too

  
  

Why It Matters for the Team

Cheerleading is a team sport. If one person refuses corrections, it affects the stunts, the routine, and ultimately the scores. A coachable athlete helps raise the standard for everyone. When every athlete buys in, the team becomes stronger, cleaner, and more prepared for success.

👉 The bottom line: Talent may open the door, but attitude keeps it open. If you want to reach your goals and be a true asset to your team, ask yourself honestly: Am I a coachable athlete?