This story initially appeared on Behind the Whistle, the official blog of the IWLCA, and is being republished with permission from the organization. Courtney Shute is the head coach at Tufts University.

[Editor’s Note: From time to time, we will feature a short Q&A with an IWLCA member coach. The format will be one question about lacrosse, one question about life and one fun question.]

Q: Describe the characteristics of the ideal Division III women’s lacrosse player and why they are important:

A: Love of competition — A love to compete is essential to a fulfilling Division III experience. The D-III level lends itself to the whole student-athlete. Your intrinsic motivation is what produces results in your individual and your team’s performance and the love of competition is what drives you. No scholarships needed, just heart.

Off-hours work ethic — The D-III level creates unique and powerful lifelong leadership lessons. The self-starter excels in Division III; women who embrace the work necessary in the “off hours” to become great. Wall ball, shooting a few buckets of balls, extra fitness ... in D-III, the little things are the big things, and they will define you as both a student-athlete and leader within your program.

Passion and Purpose — Finding and embracing your most authentic self is what college and being 18-22 years old is all about. The Division III level gives you the balance to find yourself. The better we know ourselves and what makes us tick, the better we are for everyone around us, including our team and teammates. You do you!

Q: What do you think is the best thing a college athlete can do to develop leadership skills through participation in team sports?

A: Buy in … all the way in … to where you are and what you are doing. Choose a school where the buy-in feels natural and then give your heart to being a part of that program. Being a leader is about seeing the whole puzzle, complete while the pieces are still laid out on the floor in front of you. Trust the vision you are following and buying into. Be that your own vision, your coaches or a senior leader on your team.

Buy-in takes hard work and setting an example for those around you. On some days, this happens through pure, organic passion, and on some days, you will have to pull it out of yourself. Buy-in to yourself — take yourself and your training seriously; you get one opportunity to be a college athlete … many young athletes would give an awful lot to be in your shoes. Be grateful, every single day. And lastly, celebrate what you want to see more of with your teammates!

Q: Your family has won an all-expenses paid, two-week trip anywhere in the world. Where do you go, and what do you see and do?

A: Wow, this sounds amazing! British Columbia here we come. We would explore Vancouver, eat well and immerse ourselves in the beautiful city for a few days — staying on a houseboat, of course. Then, we’d head to the mountains for some hiking and camping by the water. Lots of swimming, kayaking, s’mores and dinner cooked over the campfire. When the kids go down to bed at night, my wife and I get to talk for a few hours by campfire and moonlight, listening to good music and laughing.