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The atmosphere of a performance or competition can help a sports team get pumped; but before they even get to the sidelines, field, or the stage, they have to help each other be a team in practices. The way that teammates interact can have a huge and lasting effect on the overall camaraderie of the team.
Teammates may feel the pressure of trying to balance great teamwork with individual competitiveness, but with a little dedication, anyone can learn to contribute to the team and still achieve group and personal goals. Be a great athlete by being a great teammate!
1) Good teammates know what to do; GREAT teammates sacrifice and follow through.
Many times in a situation, you know the right choice. What separates a good teammate from a great teammate is actually doing the right thing. In order to be a great teammate, the team must always come first. Sometimes you may not like what’s best for the team, but you do it anyway. For example, you may want a solo or lead spot but know in your heart that someone else would make a better choice. Be a great teammate and let the other person take the spotlight.
2. Good teammates can be led; GREAT teammates lead by example.
To be a good teammate, you need to know how to listen to your coach and captain. But if you want to be a great teammate, you shouldn’t just follow; you should lead! Be a good role model for everyone else on the team. When it’s time to start warming up, instead of chatting with friends, immediately get started. Just because you’re not the captain doesn’t mean you can’t be an influential leader for your team.
3. Good teammates resist placing blame; GREAT teammates take responsibility.
Even if it’s not your fault, it can be immature to place the blame on someone else. In order to be a great teammate, it takes more than just holding your tongue; take responsibility for it. When you’re on a team, everyone is responsible for every person’s mistake. Even if you’re not pointing a finger at someone else, not taking responsibility for the mistake is almost just as bad. If there is one person in particular who is falling behind, rather than place blame, help him/her out.
4. Good teammates accept tasks; GREAT teammates get it done.
It’s one thing to take on an extra load of work. It’s another thing to actually do it. A great teammate is trustworthy and reliable. When a great teammate is given an assignment, the coach or captain knows that the person will get it done on time. It’s important to be trustworthy. It’s not just a coach or captain relying on you; it’s an entire team! If given an assignment, the coach is entrusting you with a lot of responsibility! Prove that you’re a great (and reliable) teammate by completing the assignment on time.
5. Good teammates are spirited; GREAT teammates always remain positive.
Whether you’re a cheerleader or a football player, it’s easy for an athlete to be spirited at a game or competition when the energy is up. It’s another thing to be positive during a difficult practice session or poor performance. A great teammate has a positive attitude, even when times are tough. By maintaining a positive attitude, you can encourage other teammates to do the same. If your team is going through a rough patch (or is just having an “off” day at practice), don’t get discouraged. Be a great teammate and raise everyone’s spirits.
With a background in dance and gymnastics, Melissa takes on the world of sports and athletics.
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