This story initially appeared on Behind the Whistle, the official blog of the IWLCA, and is being republished with permission from the organization. Liz Beville is the head coach of Le Moyne women's lacrosse.

After graduating college, I set a goal for myself to become a head women’s lacrosse coach by the time I was 30 years old. Shortly after turning 27, I had a job as a Division II head coach. Lucky? Maybe. Right place, right time? Maybe. Worked my butt off to get what I wanted? Absolutely.

Over the past six years, I’ve held many titles — graduate assistant, assistant, interim head coach and head coach. I lived in three states, six different apartments and worked in Division I, II and III. My path up the coaching ladder was not exactly as I imagined but my journey has provided me with many valuable lessons, which have helped shape the coach I am today.

As we enter the start of a new season, I thought this would be a good time to share what stood out as important to me in my path up the ladder and help someone else out as they navigate the coaching profession.

Take Initiative

I cannot express how important this is as an assistant coach. Do not wait to be told what to do. There are endless tasks to be completed on a day-to-day basis. Whether it’s updating your program’s recruiting database, typing out a roster, researching hotels for road games or watching game film, take the initiative to check something off the ‘to-do’ list.

Be On Time

You have no excuse to be late to the office, practice, etc. If you truly want to show your commitment to your boss and program remember the quote, “First one in, last one out.” It will not always be possible, but showing up before your head coach will confirm your dedication. Learn their coffee order for extra brownie points.

Build Relationships

You should work diligently to form relationships with the people you are around every day. Relationships with your head coach, other assistants and players will be a given, but what about the basketball coach down the hall, the assistant athletic director or someone from the admissions office who works with your department? Always make friends with the secretary in your main office if you are lucky enough to have one — they know everything!

Coach, Coach and Coach Some More

Camps, clinics, showcases, club programs. If you have an opportunity to coach, take it! Not only will you strengthen your coaching skills by working in different environments with all different age groups, but you will also form connections with people you might work with later on in your career.

Learn to Manage Your Time

My second year of coaching, I was taking graduate classes, coaching and working two additional part-time jobs. I am sure this is the case for many of you out there, too. Make ‘to-do’ lists and keep your calendar up to date. The earlier you learn to prioritize your time the better, not only will you feel organized, but you will also be able to offer advice to your players. If you can do it, so can they.

Use Your Voice / Bring New Ideas

Have the confidence to speak up and share your thoughts and ideas. Most (if not all) head coaches did not hire you to agree with everything they say. You will bring fresh eyes and different viewpoints to practice and game prep, have drills from your own playing career and personal experiences as a student-athlete or coach. Don’t be afraid to share!

Show a United Front

While it is important to use your voice, make sure you know your head coach’s vision for the program. Showing a united front is valuable for team unity and helps create positive chemistry and culture in the office, which will trickle down to players in the locker room and on the field.

Wear the Hats

Be prepared to teach more than the X’s and O’s. Coaches are instructors, mentors, facilitators, demonstrators, advisors, supporters, motivators, counselors, organizers, planners and role models. Some hats may be easier to wear, and some will need some practice. Embrace whatever role you are in at any given time.

Have a Support System

Just as our players look to their teammates for encouragement, it is important that you also have a support system in place. Whether it is a family member, a friend, a former teammate or co-worker down the hall, find people who will celebrate the wins with you but also be there to pick you up after a tough loss.

Keep the Faith

This is a phrase my Papa always sends in texts or writes on cards, and I believe the words are important. This profession is not easy. It will test you emotionally, physically and spiritually. You might experience the highest of highs and the lowest of lows in a matter of days, or in some cases, hours. I spent the majority of the summer not knowing what my future held which was frustrating, but I worked hard to maintain positive thoughts about what was next for me. When times are tough, keep the faith and good things will happen!