Here is how to become one.

Leadership is a skill that is not only required for standing at the helm of a large organization or group - it is also needed for the day-to-day management of the team. Even if an athlete doesn't want to be a leader, the traits of leadership will help foster strong working skills.

Leadership is an intangible ability to provide direction to a group of individuals working towards a common goal. Although many attributes of leadership are hard to define, it comprises concrete qualities. These qualities are what separates good leaders from great - or better yet, effective - leaders.

The following is a list of 10 important attributes that can help anyone become an outstanding leader. Their value extends beyond athletic field, and will serve anyone well in life.

Start Small

Try teaching or showing a fellow teammate some techniques that are your strength. Take on extra responsibility when given the opportunity. Let others see that you are someone who can be trusted and depended on. Remember, leaders do not demand respect, they earn it.

Be Approachable and Accessible

Nobody is too important to talk to others. An effective leader will make a point to be available to provide direction and leadership. One way to do this is to give underclassmen the opportunity to discuss topics with you when needed. It is also important to note that a leader on the athletic field is also a leader outside that area as well.

Share the Credit and Shoulder the Blame

If praise is given to you, make sure that others involved receive their fair share of the credit. Conversely, if you as the leader steer others astray, accept the blame.

Learn to Say Things the Right Way

This is perhaps the most difficult attribute to master. That is because everyone has a different definition of the "right way." It starts with stating your remarks in a positive way, especially publicly. Positive words go a long way. In order to learn this important skill, you must learn to read people. This requires paying attention to their personalities and finding the best way to say something that will connect with that individual.

Another part of this is learning to accept a compliment. A simple "thanks" works just fine and will make the person paying you the compliment feel appreciated. It is not unusual to falter while learning to say things the right way, but make each mistake a learning experience - then move on.

Thank People for Their Contributions

How you do this is important. The better others feel about their contributions, the more likely they'll want to help you again.

Utilize the Personal Touch

Acknowledge the work and accomplishments of others around you. Take the time to get to know them and make sure that the people you interact with get to know you.

Be Flexible About How to Attain a Goal

When you are a leader trying to get something accomplished, remember, it is the end - not the means - that is most important. People approach tasks with different mindsets, and that is okay. Just relax, take time to consult others, and be flexible. You might just find a new way of doing things.

Make Sure Each and Every Individual Feels Important

The better people feel about themselves, the more willing they will be to put extra effort into their work.

Give Feedback in a Timely Manner

No one likes to wait. The longer you as a leader lag in providing feedback, the more likely people who look up to you are prone not to care.

Take Initiative

Perhaps the greatest quality a leader can possess - and the one that might be hardest to quantify - is initiative. To be a great leader, you must show initiative to get the job done. Do not wait to be told to do something, simply do it.

Now that you have developed a concept of what it takes to be an effective leader, you can put those ideas into practice, whether that means seeking a leadership position, or simply demonstrating these qualities day-to-day. Working to implement these principles of effective leadership will set you on your way to becoming a leader of tomorrow.