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One of the most unfortunate things I see when identifying…

“One of the most unfortunate things I see when identifying youth players is the girl who is told over the years how great she is. By the time she's a high school freshman, she starts to believe it. By her senior year, she's fizzled out. Then there's her counterpart: the girl waiting in the wings…” quote by Anson Dorrance
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“One of the most unfortunate things I see when identifying youth players is the girl who is told over the years how great she is. By the time she's a high school freshman, she starts to believe it. By her senior year, she's fizzled out. Then there's her counterpart: the girl waiting in the wings who quietly and with determination decides she's going to make something of herself. Invariably, this humble, hardworking girl is the one who becomes the real player.”

Anson Dorrance

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Over‑confidence in youth can lead to burnout, while quiet determination and humility foster lasting success.

In simple terms: Confidence without effort fades; humility builds skill.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate humility and work ethic early.

Themes

sports development confidence humility burnout

Mood

reflective motivational

Type

advice coach’s insight.

When to use this quote

  • high school sports
  • college recruiting
  • team building
  • personal development

Key Concepts

Self‑efficacy growth mindset intrinsic motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can coaches balance encouragement with realistic feedback?
  • What practices nurture humility in talented youth?
A Different Perspective

Over‑confidence can also be a protective self‑esteem; not always negative.

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