A Unified Team

We all know that successful teams usually possess a noticeably high level of unity. You might see team huddles with arms over each other's shoulders or players rushing to help a teammate up to their feet after a fall. These are things that set a quality team apart, small but important details that have nothing to do with skill or ability. 

When teams buy into the concept that all of their teammates are family, the experience can be transformative for high school students. As the Athletic Director, it’s my hope that our teams at Wardlaw+Hartridge place a high priority on unity and recognize the benefits and positive impact it has on our student-athletes. Shaping character, building relationships, and fostering a sense of belonging that goes beyond wins and losses is a huge part of the scholastic sports experience. 

Pressure to perform can be intense and the stakes are high, but team unity serves as a powerful force that can make all the difference. When a group of individuals comes together with a shared goal, a common purpose, and a deep sense of camaraderie, they are capable of achieving extraordinary things.

Unified teams have created a built-in support system for each member. Whether it's a challenging practice, a tough game, or personal struggles off the field, knowing that you have a group of teammates who have your back can be incredibly empowering. This support system not only helps athletes perform better under pressure but also fosters resilience and mental toughness that are essential qualities we hope our student-athletes are gaining through the W+H athletic experience.

This process is not always easy. Everyone has to be open-minded and willing to put the team before any personal feelings and goals, while also recognizing that those personal feelings and goals are important. 

According to 2014 research from Cornell University, people who played competitive sports during their secondary school years showed higher levels of leadership and success throughout their careers. Employers also expected “student-athletes to display significantly more leadership, self-confidence, and self-respect than those who were active outside of sports,” according to the Cornell research.

As parents, we all want our children to be successful in whatever they choose to do. Developing these collaborative skills is a great start. With this in mind, your messaging can play a key role in helping your child to gain these benefits.

Here are some tips:

• Encourage teamwork.
• Show balanced rooting from the sidelines. 
• Set a good example by saying only positive things about team members and their families. 
• Be supportive of the coach and communicate any concerns with the athletic director privately.  

This isn't easy to do. It takes a lot of commitment and trust to experience true team unity and the transformative benefits that can come from it. And the outcome is always worth the effort.