Your coach is having you do crunches and endless sprints for a reason. Now’s not the time to lag behind. Commit to putting 100-percent of your effort into these drills. Not only will you improve as an athlete, you’ll showing your support for your team. When every player is in top shape, you guys will be more likely tackle the opposition. Besides, every Olympic athlete we’ve ever chatted with has talked up the benefits of off-the-field training.

Keep the drama outta the locker room and make an effort to be sweet to every girl on the team. We know: it can be tough when you’re dealing with divas or ball-hogs, but it’s key to treat every girl equally. If you have an actual prob with someone, make a point to (calmly) chat with her. Otherwise, take the Miss Congeniality route and offer to pitch in when volunteers are needed or make signs for the WHOLE team (not just your buds).

Even if you aren’t BFFs with your teammates, it’s clutch to attend team-sponsored activities (hello, carwash!) and participate in the activities the captains plan. Why? Off-the-field unity and spirit will up your bond and help you understand these girlies even more. Why not get in on the games? Suggest you all sign up to volunteer at community event together, wear your team hues on the designated day or offer up your house for a team sleepover (if your ’rents OK it, that is!).

by Katie Abbondanza | 2/1/2016