Tip: Stress can impact your ability to perform on and off the field

Stress can inhibit routine tasks such as interacting with others, focusing in school, sleeping, eating, and maintaining overall health. Use coping mechanisms to balance stress levels while also ensuring proper rest, recovery and relaxation. For some this may be reading a book, going for a walk, taking a nap, writing, etc.

Tip: Experts recommend 8-10 hours of sleep for teenagers

Teens need to get enough sleep every night to function best. They are more likely to do well on a test or play their best game with sufficient sleep. Tips for getting enough sleep: Go to bed at a consistent hour every night, exercise regularly, avoid drinking caffeine and unwind by keeping the lights low and shut off electronics.

Tip: Alcohol suppresses training hormones for up to 4 days. You may show up to practice but there will be little improvement or gains.

A few drinks can offset your hard work by erasing the effects of your workouts, reducing your endurance and compromising your mental game. Alcohol affects your ability to learn new plays and strategies; it decreases your aptitude for muscle development and recovery and negatively impacts your nutrition and endurance.

Tip: The psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, THC, can influence timing, movement and coordination.

Marijuana can have significant harmful effects on athletic performance. It can negatively impact your coordination and movements and decrease reaction time. Using marijuana not only is detrimental to you but to your team as well.

Tip: Every game is an opportunity to measure yourself against your own potential

Focus on your game and not competitors by putting effort into your own strengths and abilities. Take every opportunity to put your personal greatness to work. The more you see what you can do, the more confidence you will gain and the more opportunities will come your way.