January 5, 2010
For winners, easy doesn't do it
by Kristen Kjellman/
Since I started playing lacrosse 12 years ago, I’ve always enjoyed stepping on the field. Simply playing is certainly fun, but winning makes it that much better. I thrive on competition, so it’s my goal to be better than my opponents.
Many teammates and several coaches have had an influence on my competitive outlook and approach to the game. I was fortunate to play for two of the best coaches in the business, Leslie Frank and Kelly Amonte Hiller. From players like Sarah Albrecht and Meredith Frank, I learned how much fun it is to play with teammates who wanted the ball in crunch time.
I believe there are controllable factors that can separate and elevate an athlete from his or her competitors. These elements include working overtime, continuing to learn, and utilizing the mental game.
OVERTIME
Raising your game to a level above your opponents’ game takes time and effort. It requires a drive to work harder, longer, and to push yourself.
At Westwood (Mass.) High, we would run 2.5 miles before many practices. I would make it a goal to finish first.
Upon arriving at Northwestern, one of the first things I realized was that I needed to master the fundamentals before I could elevate my game. It was essential to be comfortable using both hands and to be confident communicating.
Throughout my four years at NU, I would take advantage of any extra available time in the turf room or on the field. I’d use the time to practice a new shot, get 1 v. 1 defensive reps, or play wall ball to work on my skills. The harder you work overtime, the easier things will come during game time.
Getting to 7 a.m. practices in early January wasn’t always easy, but maybe this dedication helped us get by Duke in that epic overtime battle at Boston University in 2006.
SOAK IT UP
I have been fortunate to learn from many great players and coaches in my career. They helped me expand my game and repertoire by sharing their knowledge, skills, and techniques. Every athlete should continue to grow every time he or she gets the opportunity to learn from talented teachers and players.
In the last few years, I’ve learned that it’s easy to become complacent, so I have to continue to find ways to stretch my limits.
Success can breed complacency, but working for a living can get in the way, too. I am fortunate to have a terrific job with Nike, but its full-time demands force me to find more creative ways to stay in shape.
THE MENTAL GAME
Hard work, extra hours, and being mentally focused can help you get an edge and bring your game to a new level. While playing for the Wildcats and the U.S. national team I learned that confidence, positivity, and visualization can go a long way.
Kelly Amonte Hiller stresses the importance of being positive and confident in yourself and your team. I am convinced my game rose to the next level once I adopted this attitude.
At the World Cup this past June, our team would visualize together the night before a game and I would often visualize the morning of games. If you can envision the play and believe it will happen, chances are it will.
Improving your game and becoming the best player you can be isn’t easy, but it’s definitely within your grasp. Extra effort will help you improve your skills, learn new strategies and techniques, and find your mental outlook. That’s how I found my edge.
Kristen Kjellman, a Massachusetts star at Westwood High and a two-time collegiate player of the year at Northwestern, helped the U.S. win the women’s World Cup in 2009. Contact her at feedback@laxjournal.com.
