Many people believe the line between confidence and arrogance is blurred and that self confidence is simply mistaken as arrogance. However, the gap between the two could not be more wide. Confidence comes from the individual. It is in an inwards feeling of assurance, certainty and determination.

Arrogance on the other hand is noisy, it demands to be heard and begs for attention. With assertiveness comes a competitive advantage and a mental toughness that can carry an athlete through challenges when playing a sport.

Without confidence, an athlete may have all the skill in the world but will never be able to execute those skills if one does not believe they possess them. Likewise, this trait of assertiveness can easily grow to be one of arrogance as an athlete develops more skill.

But unlike confidence, conceited athletes, not only believe in themselves, but use their skillset to overshadow others. As an athlete it is important to hold yourself to a standard of balance. While self confidence is good, it is important not to allow that confidence to overtake the person.