BAC

Representation

Be an Effective Rep

• Determine your mandate -- who do you represent? What do those people want you to do?
• Establish strong and continuous lines of communication between you and those you represent - meetings at competitions, regular memos, telephone calls.
• Learn and understand how your organization works -- which are the committees where decisions are made, how do athletes become a part of the decision-making?
• Identify the key people and get to know them - show them that you will contribute in a constructive way to the future of the organization.
• Attend meetings !!!
• Be prepared !! Read pre-meeting materials, talk to other committee members - you cannot contribute if you do not attend prepared to discuss the issues.
• Follow - up !! Do what you have been asked to do promptly and well.
• Report on meetings to those you represent. Let them know what is happening BEFORE it happens!
• Have a plan - if you see something that you and those you represent think is not right, be prepared with a plan to change it. Clearly identify the problem and offer paths to solutions.
• Don't be afraid to speak up or ask questions when you do not understand. You may feel stupid, but you cannot be effective without understanding (chances are someone else has the same question, anyway).
• Where you are knowledgeable, be sure of yourself. Athletes live the sport system - we understand how it really works (not just how it is supposed to work).
• Remember - a stronger sport system starts with you!!