Overview
Lifeguarding is the 2nd level of accountability within the Green Team Framework (1st being the Green Team, 3rd being “The 6” exercise) and will help players look out for their teammates with more intention and frequency.
- Players will be given unique language to view “accountability” in a new, fresh way.
- Players will learn the need to be proactive in looking out for teammates to help them avoid drowning (red)
- The team will be presented with an accountability challenge to go the whole season without letting any of their teammates dip below a certain standard
"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
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Lesson Plan
Player 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
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.
Quiz Questions
Use these questions below to engage after you have taught the exercise.
- What are teammates holding the standard called?
- Why do they instruct lifeguards to constantly keep their head on a swivel?
- What are some warning signs players may show that indicate they’re sliding down through gray towards red?
At Home
Coaches, use the below question, reflection, and action to engage parents, guardians, and other family members in the lessons learned in this exercise.
Suggestions on how to use: Email to parents the day you have taught this lesson, add it to the materials you send home, or text it to text message threads with your players.
- Question: What is the role of a lifeguard?
- Reflection: How can you help your teammates from going into the red?
- Action: Share the warning signs you will be looking for to help your teammates stay in the Green.
Coach’s Reflection
Coach, take a moment to reflect on the lesson and how you can lead by example to your players.
Coach, how can you serve your coaching staff as a lifeguard? Sure, it’s important for the players to serve as lifeguards for one another, but what about the coaches? Coaches need lifeguarding too. Think about what would be potential warning signs for a coach falling into red. How would you lifeguard a coach that needs saving?