As the chaos of a match takes its hold on every player, there exists a strong constant keeping the team grounded. A simple ‘Heads up, stay strong,’ from their rooted captain keeps each team stable.
Captains are an integral part of every team. Typically, they are an older, experienced player with the ability to bring out the best in their teammates. Receiving the title is not taken lightly, nor are the responsibilities that come with it.
Each high school sports team decides the captain(s) in their own manner. Some are simply picked by the coach, while others are voted for by their teammates.
“The coaches pick whoever is most fit for the position of leadership,” White Station High School Boys’ Basketball captain Tony Chandler (12) said. “They see who’s the most vocal and fits the roles that come with being a captain.”
For teams whose captain(s) are decided by the coach(es), there is a lot that must be considered for the role. Though technical skill and play level are important, relationship to the team, responsibility and mental strength are also valued in a viable captain.
“It’s more than basketball with [the White Station High School team],” Chandler said. “They are my family at this point.”
Once selected as captain, the chosen member’s roles vary from team to team. Usually, they are the ones to speak to the referees before games, mediate any misunderstandings among the team and most importantly, be the anchors of their teams. In times of trouble, they ensure their team keeps their heads strong.
“You have to motivate your teammates,” Aldair Manuel (12) said. “As captain, you push them to be their best.”
Being a captain immediately draws respect from fellow teammates, but it also draws dependence. If a younger player needs advice or a listening ear, their captain is likely the first person they would turn to. On the field, they are role models in not only play level but also in their demeanor. A verbally chaotic captain reflects on the team as a whole.
“Leadership is important,” Manuel said. “But how you carry yourself on and off the field is really important too.”
With all the responsibilities of the role, a captain must be able to mentally take them on. The pressure of keeping up play and a level head can be tough to bear. Captains must constantly be at their best; any slip of theirs could have rippling effects through the team.
“I’ve been playing for so long now, I don’t get pre-game nerves,” Manuel said. “The team depends on me, and I can’t let them down.”
Though the challenges can be burdensome, the emotional rewards of being a captain are significant. When the team is properly held together by its anchor, a captain is not only relieved, but delighted. They are to thank for level-headed teams and the victorious results that come with such teams.
“Being captain is satisfying,” Manuel said. “I’m always helping the team and other people.”
