Being a benchwarmer in sports might seem boring or even frustrating, but it can really be a great opportunity for growth. Even if you are on the bench, you are still a crucial part of the team. Just think about it: you are actually learning a lot by watching your teammates and noticing their style of play. Being a part of a team sport isn’t always about how good you are or how much playing time you get, it is about how involved you are with your teammates and how much you support them.
“I support my teammates from the bench by cheering them on and encouraging them to do better,” said sophomore Khloe Bryant. “Just being able to say I was a part of the varsity team brings me excitement for what’s going to happen next season.”
Being a supportive teammate from the bench is crucial for confidence and connection. Just cheering on teammates and offering encouragement especially during tough or intense moments can create a positive and supportive environment that benefits everyone on the team.
“Khloe definitely is a big support system on the team–she always keeps us hype and positive,” said sophomore Ja’Kya Johnson. “Even though she is on the bench, whenever she gets put in the game she always knows what to do and how to do it; she just has great sportsmanship.”
Beyond supporting, benchwarmers can provide feedback as much as the coaches can. They have different perspectives on the game, and they can see weakness in the opposite team or even notice when a teammate is starting to give up and needs to be subbed out.
Although, being a benchwarmer can often be tough and frustrating because in their head lots of thoughts of being unappreciated are occurring. Even feeling as if their hard work isn’t enough, which can often lead to having no motivation. This can also encourage them to work harder. This can help with player development and can help shape the athlete into who they are.
Many athletes use their time as benchwarmers to study and grow, ultimately becoming better players. Preparing yourself is always the best. Just watching how different players react under pressure or even how they communicate with each other can help with increasing your playing time.
“I stayed motivated by watching my teammates and even caught on to the strategies they use on the court,” said sophomore Zryia Stallings. “At practice I would push myself to improve not only for the coaches’ attention but for me too.”
