[Context: I’m not sure who I learned the term “sick, lame and lazy” (SLL) from, but I adopted

it a long time ago.

It’s a fun tease and is said with genuine affection, often initiating some banter for the rest of

the session.

Another term might be “Team Rehab”.

Regardless, of what you term you use, it’s beneficial to create an identity to those undergoing

rehabilitation or who aren’t on “full training”.]

Injuries are more than just the physical ailment or impediment.

There is the emotional factor that is arguably more important for the athlete.

Especially if

1) their identity is connected with their sport and

2) their social lives are connected with the squad.

The negative effects of both of these situations can be minimised, maybe even eliminated, by

giving them additional coaching responsibilities.

Involve the SLL in the planning of training. Or the execution. Load them up on responsibilities.

In many cases I’ve almost taken the SLL on as a pseudo-intern.

This will potentially help in a multitude of ways:

– they can transition their social interactions from the player group to the coaching group.

– they’ll still feel like they’re contributing to the performance of the squad.

– they’ll feel like they’re still progressing themselves (tactically or technically).

Point is: Keep the SLL involved in training!