Help Your Athlete Have a High Work Rate

In youth sports, there are very few things an athlete can control. The outcome of the game, the referee’s calls, the coach’s decisions—these are all outside of an athlete’s influence. However, two critical factors remain fully within their control: attitude and effort. The best part? Neither requires a high skill level; they are choices made every single day. Learn these tips to help your athlete have a high work rate. 

The Coach’s Perspective on Attitude and Effort

As coaches, we value attitude and effort just as much as raw talent. Many parents believe their child works hard, but effort is more than just showing up and going through the motions. Lately, I’ve started focusing on a term I find even more telling than effort—work rate.

What is Work Rate?

Work rate isn’t just about effort; it’s about consistent, relentless hustle. It’s about giving your best in every drill, every game, every moment—whether someone is watching or not. Work rate is something you can’t always coach, but it’s one of the biggest differentiators between good and great athletes.

What Does a High Work Rate Look Like on the Field?

• Chasing down every ball – You sprint after a loose ball, even if it seems like it’s going out of bounds.
• Relentless energy – You never jog when you can sprint, and you push yourself even when you’re tired.
• Focused and coachable – You listen intently to instructions, make eye contact, and apply feedback immediately.
• Setting the tone at practice – You give maximum effort in drills, setting an example for teammates.
• Defensive commitment – You fight to win back possession instead of waiting for someone else to step up.
• Off-ball movement – You don’t stand still; you’re always looking to create space, support teammates, and anticipate plays.

Why Work Rate Matters

A high work rate doesn’t just make a player stand out; it transforms teams. Coaches love players who give 100% because they elevate the intensity of the entire squad. Work rate is contagious—when one player hustles, others follow.

More importantly, work rate translates beyond sports. In school, in work, and in life, those who outwork their peers often find success, regardless of natural talent. Hustle, resilience, and a willingness to do the extra work are traits that separate leaders from the rest.

Final Thoughts

If you’re an athlete, ask yourself: Are you maximizing the things you can control? Do you show up with a great attitude every day? Are you pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone, even when no one is watching?

Skill will take you far, but work rate and attitude will take you further. Be the player who sets the tone, who fights for every ball, and who refuses to be outworked. That’s the athlete every coach wants on their team.

iSport360 is the only app that does it all for youth sports. For more information on what we do, click here. 

About the author: 

Amy Masters is a sports mom, coach, and club administrator. She has been coaching youth sports for more than 10 years. She started Jr Lions Field Hockey, the youth recreation program for the Hunterdon County community growing it from 40 players in year 1 to 150 players by year 3. A few years later, she saw the love and competitiveness grow then started Omega Field Hockey Club serving NJ and PA players. Before coaching, she was a collegiate field hockey player for Lock Haven University. In her spare time (lol), she is head of marketing for iSport360 and the co-editor of the Youth Sports Survival Guide. The Youth Sports Survival Guide is the largest youth sports newsletter in the world.