Creating an environment in which the players enjoy training and playing together is a coach’s first priority. If players enjoy the game, they will work harder, and take their own performance and progress, the team’s improvement, and the sport as a whole more seriously.
Cohesion seems to be one of those team factors that is continually talked about, but never quite defined. A general definition, according to Carron (1982) is the ability of a team to stick together and remain united in the pursuit of its goals and objectives. Important factors in cohesion are the ability of the team to draw its members in (group integration), and each individual’s attraction to the team. With these factors developed, a team tends to unite into a greater force, concentrated on a common goal.
Consider these practical methods of developing the factors of cohesion within your team. Also explore ideas outside the playing field, in order to gain a deeper appreciation of your players off the court.
As the season comes to a climax, it’s important to step back and evaluate what the team has accomplished. Taking a fresh, unbiased look is difficult because you are so wrapped up in the team. Get feedback from assistant coaches, players, parents, and others close to the team. Digest what they feel about the team and the season, then channel it into thoughtful insights and constructive lessons.
In Part 1, we encouraged an end of the season conversation between each player and the coach. Besides thanking the players for their efforts and contributions, the coach could “interview” each player to uncover the player’s take on the season. This includes a self-evaluation - in what areas the player would like to improve, training ideas for the summer, hopes for the next season.
Chances are that by June the coach is as burned out from the season as the players. Before releasing the players for the open season (and suddenly freeing up a lot of time for yourself!), end the year on a positive and productive note. Let each player know that you appreciate the effort and performance that was given for you and the team.
Players must all feel like they deserve or earn the privilege of being on a team. Most often they must experience something terribly difficult or endure a common experience during the season. These experiences often build unity on the team.
Why do good teams often beat better teams? Sports are team based, and games are won and lost by teams, not individuals. Believe in your players, and they will learn to believe in each other. Your coaching example is more contagious than you might expect. There are several ways that good coaches help their teams reach new levels of success using teamwork.
As the season gets underway, think about the coach’s appearance and attitude during the pre-game period on the day of the match. Do you appear focused in a confident, organized, and positive manner or are you scrambling about, appearing stressed and out of control? The players on the team feed of the coach’s demeanor, especially on game day. The players have plenty of nervous and insecure emotions (many self-induced) already, so why further disrupt their equilibrium by your own complexion? Consider the following components as you present a positive, organized demeanor on game day.
Many of you may be preparing for an end of the season Tournaments. It is an anxious time for you, the players, and, of course, the parents. The team has worked very hard to get to the Big Show.
One idea to make the transition into the weekend a positive one is to write a short letter to the team (for both the players and parents) to summarize your feelings on the season and hopes heading into the upcoming tournament(s).