Athletes come in all shapes and sizes and compete in different sports that require a wide variety of expertise. Some skills can be learned, whereas others are God-given traits that must be utilized for success. There are some qualities, however, which transcend these external differences and are crucial to the make-up of an athlete.

I believe every athlete possesses each of the following, but maybe not in the same degree. To function best in life and in competition, it is essential for these to be in balance. My future blogs will go into more detail about how each quality impacts the rest of the athlete’s life, relationships, and spiritual health as well as potential issues that occur when they get out of balance.

Without further ado, here are the top five qualities of an athlete:

Discipline. This is the dedication to work hard day in and day out. This involves willingly submitting to sweat, pain, tears, long days, hard practices, and extra sprints. This is what is required on the front end for positive results.

Integrity. This is sportsmanship, following the rules of the game. It’s not cutting corners when no one is looking. This is doing the right things in the right way for the right reasons.

Sacrifice. This is giving up your time, sleep, energy, and schedule. It’s letting go of what you would rather be doing for what you know you should be doing. It’s thinking more of your coach, your team, and your potential than your momentary desires.

Courage. This is the ability to try something new in spite of fear or resistance. It’s being willing to battle back against the odds when others say it’s not possible. This is taking risks and being vulnerable to failure for the hope of something greater.

Passion. This is a love of the game. It’s what makes the previous four qualities worth it. This is the drive required to continue when things get hard, to get excited for each and every game, and to miss it three days into the off season.

I’ve come up what I believe are the most important qualities for an athlete. Feel free to comment if you agree or disagree. Would you add any? Are some not necessary for every athlete?

Rachel Miedema