Stop Getting Subbed! 5 Mistakes That Can Cost You Everything
Have you ever made one mistake in a match… then another… and suddenly you’re terrified the coach is about to substitute you? I’ve lived that situation many times in my pro career. That’s why in this post I’ll show you the biggest mistakes that almost guarantee a substitution—and more importantly, how to avoid them so you can stay on the court.
By the way, this is exactly what I help players with inside my Next-Gen Hitter program—where I teach you how to play with confidence, avoid unnecessary substitutions, and become the hitter your coach trusts. But let’s dive into some practical tips right now.
https://youtu.be/uyEFg4agjGw
Mistake #1 – Repeated Errors
Every coach can accept one or two errors. But three big mistakes in a row—three missed serves, three bad passes, or three attacks out—sends a clear signal that something’s wrong. I remember once missing two serves early in a set. My coach gave me one more chance. I went for a risky jump serve again… missed it… and immediately found myself on the bench.
???? Fix: After two errors in a row, play safe. Put the ball in, get the rhythm back, and rebuild confidence.
Mistake #2 – Free Ball Errors
Nothing frustrates coaches more than messing up a free ball. If the opponent gives you a high, slow ball and you send it off target—or worse, out of bounds—it looks like a lack of focus. Sometimes even a single mistake like this can cost you your spot.
???? Fix: Treat every easy ball like gold. Move your feet, set it to the middle of the court, and show your coach you’re reliable.
Mistake #3 – Low Energy / Bad Body Language
Have you ever caught yourself walking around the court with no fire after a mistake? Coaches see it immediately. They want fighters—players who show passion and energy, not boredom or fear.
???? Fix: Use body language as your weapon. Even if you’re struggling, clap your hands, cheer, show the coach you’re ready for the next point.
Mistake #4 – Ignoring Tactics or Arguing
If you don’t follow team strategy—or worse, argue with the coach—you’re basically asking to be benched. I’ve seen great players lose their spot not because of errors, but because they refused to play within the system.
???? Fix: If you disagree, talk calmly after the match. During the game, follow the plan 100%.
Mistake #5 – End of Sets / Tie-Breaks
The closer the score, the less tolerance there is. In the last points of a set, even one or two errors can decide the outcome. Coaches need players they can trust in pressure moments.
???? Fix: Play smart. Don’t try to be a hero on every ball—be the player who keeps the team steady.
Positive Wrap-Up
Here’s the good news: one play can completely change the coach’s mind. A tough dig, a smart attack, or a solid pass can rebuild trust instantly. That’s why you should warm up seriously, train with focus, and most of all—don’t play scared. Mistakes will happen. But if you keep energy high, limit big error streaks, and show fight, your coach will keep you on the court.
Want to learn how to avoid substitutions and become the hitter your coach trusts? Check out my Next-Gen Hitter program.
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