Encourage Patience

A new Academic Games recruit may make a hasty judgment concerning whether or not to continue with the team. Some may attend the first meeting and never return. Some are “shopping” for activities to join. Unfortunately, it takes time for newcomers to become minimally proficient in Academic Games, especially the cube games. Take time at the first meeting to urge newcomers not to make a snap judgment. Point out that they wouldn’t expect to compete against veterans the first day on the athletic field or court. They should focus on a reasonable goal of progressing in their ability to play at each practice. In this way, they will be able to give a good account of themselves when the first tournament rolls around. A veteran can share his or her story of feeling overwhelmed at first but sticking with it and having success.