The NFL Draft is over, and the rookies are beginning their new lives as professional football players. Some have had many of the same teammates for the past few years, but now it's time for them to meet new guys, learn new systems and follow new coaches.

Minicamps help to set the foundation or create the vibe that the new guys will have with one another. It's an important time for them as individual players and for their teams.

Your kids will experience joining new teams and bonding with new players during their youth football careers as well. Just like NFL rookies, the first few practices are pretty important for them and their teams.

What can they do to make sure this time is used to build a great foundation for them and their new team? Below are 5 things they must do when joining a new team.

Drop the 'I'

We've all heard the saying: "Thereis no 'I' in team." That's the first thing they need to remember. Although they may be competing for positions and playing time, they will all be competing together against the others teams. Approaching everything with a "what's best for the team" mind set will go far with coaches and players.

Listen and learn

Although they may not have a complicated playbook like NFL rookies have, there will still be a lot to learn. They need to listen well and learn as much as they can. This is the "sponge" stage, where they want to know about the coaches, the players, the plays and soak up everything they are taught.

Work hard

One of the best ways to stand out is to work their butts off. I love the quote: "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard." In addition to getting better as players through hard work, the respect of coaches and players will also be earned. Teach and encourage a great work ethic to your kids.

Be positive

The attitude your kids have will get them noticed. This could be for the right reasons or the wrong reasons. Make sure they remain positive. Whether they are struggling on the field or even struggling to bond with teammates, remind them to stay positive through it all. Being known as a negative person or a player with a poor attitude will be to their detriment as well as to the team.

Have fun

At the end of the day, football and all youth sports are meant to be fun. They shouldn't take everything too seriously or get too worked up about the new situation. It's an opportunity to meet new people, build new relationships and play the game they love so much with a group of kids and coaches who feel the same way.

What's the top "must do" for your kids when they join a new team?

Jackie Bledsoe Jr. is a writer, blogger, speaker, husband and sports parent of three. He's played sports for more than 30 years, including the collegiate level, while coaching youth sports for the past nine years. He's the author of The Family Leader Manifesto. You can read more from Jackie by clicking here to subscribe to his blog.