Setting the Table for Lifeguard
Note: the Lifeguard concept needs to be taught after you have taught your players the Green Team.
Once the standards are set within the team (Green Team) it’s then up to the players to hold those standards. We call those players holding the standards “Lifeguards” – lifeguards keep a watchful eye out, are constantly surveying the scene, identifying warning signs and then stepping to assure everyone is “safe.”
Lifeguards are willing to jump in the water to save others from drowning but ideally, lifeguards prevent others from ever getting to the point of drowning in the first place.
In this exercise your players will learn the role of a lifeguard, will begin embracing the responsibilities of a lifeguard, adopt a new perspective in holding others accountable and develop a new passion for holding the standards of the team.
"“Ever since being introduced to the Lifeguard concept I’ve had a completely different perspective on my role as a leader. I understand the need to be proactive and “jumping in” to help my teammates performance stay high. It’s been a huge game-changer for me.”"
Varsity Girls Basketball Player – Maryland
To view this content you need to have a Coaches Membership.
If you are already a Coaches Member, please log in to view this Exercise.
Lifeguard Lesson Plan Materials
Student Growth Areas
Exercise Length
Language Guide
Lifeguards
Individuals who raise the performance of others and help keep them above the standards, i.e. “above the water” to prevent them from drowning
Lifeguard Exercise Reminder Card
To emphasize and reinforce the lessons learned in this exercise with your players, download and share this graphic with them 24 hours after completing the exercise.
Lifeguard Quiz Questions
Use these questions below to engage after you have taught the exercise.
- What are classmates holding the standard called?
- Why do they instruct lifeguards to constantly keep their head on a swivel?
- What are some warning signs classmates may show that indicate they’re sliding down through gray towards red?