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with Eric Rud, Head Coach, Alaska Anchorage 5 Ways to Be a Great Teammate Tips those characteristics regularly creates an environment that everyone wants to be a part of. RE S PECT: For your teammates, coaches, opponents, the officials and even the game itself. Despite winning or losing, your character is what will be remembered. Make sure it's a good one. "Youth coaches can set the tone and let everyone know that no one person is bigger than the team," said Rud, adding that exuding a heightened-level of sportsmanship is something that must be stressed at the Mite and Squirt levels. Instituting the core trait of 'respect' in players and highlighting its importance— INVER GROVE HEIGHTS NATIVE ERIC RUD, new head coach at Alaska Anchorage, shared his thoughts on what makes a great teammate. Rud has coached collegiate, junior and international hockey for over 25 years. WORK ETHIC: Success always follows those who work hard at their craft. There are never any shortcuts, both on and off the ice. Developing a strong work ethic begins at a young age. As a player progresses in their career, those habits will hopefully carry over into off-ice preparation, dryland training and summer conditioning as well. "I think talent within players emerges at different points in their life, but the one thing that shows up very early is the ability to be a great teammate, a winner and a good, hard-working player," said Rud, a former Colorado College standout and product of Simley hockey. "Sometimes, it's built by family values and factors outside of the hockey world." ENTHUSIASM: Take pride in what you do and always come with a high level of energy. Not only will it benefit your performance but will encourage others to do the same. Regardless of natural skill level and ability, it's imperative for each player to consistently bring the same level of passion and energy to the rink on a nightly basis. Teammates and coaches notice very quickly which players have a love for the game and a deep-rooted desire to improve every day. Displaying Photo / James Butler that character, honor and integrity mean much more than a win or loss—is a key responsibility for coaches. DISCIPLINE: If you play sports, you will face adversity. There is no way around it. At some point, the game will not be going your way. How will you 10 M H J ON L I N E . C O M | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 6 2 1 3 4 Rud's No. 1 attribute of a great teammate? Be a hard worker and don't cut corners.