Why winning REALLY isn’t everything..
Over the weekend at the Australian Masters Nationals, I had the opportunity to engage in conversations with athletes and coaches within the weightlifting community. Through these discussions and further reflection, I feel compelled to address a perspective that may not be popular but is undeniably important to consider.
Leading up to the competition, the athletes at MWBC had diverse goals that we had collectively set during our training block. These goals ranged from making a comeback after an injury and achieving personal bests to focusing on technical improvements and opening with heavier weights than before. Some athletes were also aiming to transition to a split jerk for the first time. Notably, throughout our preparations, we never discussed winning, medals, state teams, or beating other competitors.
As a coach, I believe it's crucial to maintain transparency about the significance of winning and the athlete's overall journey. While we are driven to maximize our athletes' standings and strive for victory in weightlifting competitions, it's essential to have open discussions about the true meaning (or lack thereof) of winning.
While the scoreboard is always a point of focus, especially during national championships where we represent our state team and aim to secure points, I never place winning as the sole objective for my athletes. This is because winning doesn't always guarantee happiness or satisfaction with one's performance.
It's tempting to strategize and select weight classes or age groups with fewer competitors in pursuit of a higher chance of winning. However, this approach often disregards personal growth and the discomfort necessary for development. Although winning medals is certainly commendable, we mustn't overlook other significant achievements. Setting personal records on the platform, opening with the heaviest weight ever lifted, or challenging oneself with new variations of lifts are all indications of progress and success in weightlifting.
Weightlifting encompasses more than just winning. While winning can be a pleasurable experience, it doesn't always bring genuine happiness to athletes. As an athlete myself, I have encountered moments where winning a gold medal left me feeling empty and unfulfilled because my goals for that competition were focused on different aspects. It's vital to recognize that success should not be solely defined by winning or podium finishes. When winning becomes the sole goal, it often overshadows opportunities for athletic growth and pushing beyond our comfort zones.
Measuring athletes solely based on their wins or their best performances restricts their potential for development, opportunities, and growth on the competition platform. Sometimes, the most meaningful competitions are those where things don't go as planned, but athletes can still hold their heads high, proud of their efforts, knowing they gave their all. These moments of resilience and self-awareness are invaluable for an athlete's training journey.
In conclusion, I invite you to share your thoughts on this topic. It's crucial to adopt a broader perspective that prioritizes personal fulfillment over the pressure of winning. By doing so, we can foster a weightlifting community that celebrates individual achievements, embraces growth, and acknowledges the profound impact of the sport beyond mere victories.
-Coach Caity
