How to Handle a Mean Opponent

Today we are learning how to handle a mean opponent!

No one likes playing against a jerk but the truth is jerks play the game too. Instead of stooping to their level, which is where they want you, and throwing you game out of whack we will learn to rise above the jerks. 

Key Points:

1. Ignore them! When an opponent starts talking trash to you just ignore them no matter what they say. Shout orders to your teammates to mark up, or shift right. Do anything to show that you don't even hear them. Do not say a word to the mean opponent! Think of them like a really mean youtube comment, just hit the delete button and laugh at them in your mind!

2. If they cheap shot you, ignore them! Don't yell at the ref, just pretend it didn't even happen.

As soon as the opponent realizes that if after physically and verbally abusing you and it doesn't bother you, they will quit trying and give up. 

3. If the cheap shots are real bad and persistent then at half time have a quiet word with the referee. Say, "Excuse me Mrs. Ref. You are doing a great job and I hate to complain but #9 has been kicking me off the ball all half. I would appreciate if you and your AR's can keep an eye on her."

4. Actions speak louder then words. Scoring a goal, making a big defensive play or setting up a game winning assist goes a lot farther then telling a mean opponent they are stupid. Trust me. That little smile you give them when you jog back to the halfway line after scoring feels way better then insulting them verbally. Trash talking is for insecure players. You are confident and let your play do the talking. 

Exercise Player Can Do: 

Prior to games spend a minute mentally visualizing how you will act if you come across a mean opponent. Visualize how good it will feel to ignore them and then play the game of your life while they can only talk trash because they will never be as good as you! 

What Player Could Be Doing Wrong: 

If you start talking trash back to mean opponents it will get your mind off your game and you will start making mistakes because you are making emotional, rash decisions to prove to the opponent you are good. 

You don't need to prove anything to them. Typically players start making mistakes when they get overly emotional. 

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