Softball Team Chemistry

 

As we all know, having skilled athletes is an essential, but not the only factor in a team's success. Chemistry, cohesiveness, and harmony are what take a group of talented individuals, and make them function as a unit. Conversely, very little is as unpleasant and unrewarding as being part of a tension-filled, conflict-filled group of individuals. While a part of the development of team chemistry is just natural, there are guidelines to fostering it. It is an area that too many coaches ignore, assuming that talent is all that is necessary. Imagine having all the pieces of a watch, but not being able to put it together.

Studies of Olympic athletes have shown that harmony is an important factor influencing performance. An athlete's state of mind and mood are direct links to performance, and athletes identified positive interaction with their coaches and teammates as the most important aspect of their mood.

Putting on the same uniform does not automatically create chemistry and harmony. Specific actions, by coaches, players, and parents do. The following are some guidelines:

1. The most essential element to team chemistry is communication. Nothing will bring a team together as much as good communication, and nothing will break it apart as much as poor communication. Chemistry and harmony grow when you listen to your teammates, and they listen to you. Athletes, coaches, and parents must learn how to share their concerns in an open, non-critical, non-judgmental fashion. Backbiting, pot shots, and hidden comments are cancer to a team's development.

2. Learn how to resolve conflict. As stated, good communication is essential. When issues arise, people must be willing to talk, listen, and respect others' points of view. Telling others how they "should" behave needs to be replaced with what I call "I" statements, which relate to another the impact that their behavior has on you. Learn how the other person perceives a situation, rather than attempting to prove who is right and who is wrong.

3. Avoid cliques. While friendships and bonding are some of the most valuable aspects of team sports, cliques and sub-grouping can drive a wedge into team harmony. Insure that no one is isolated or left out, and that no small group controls practices, events, or the spirit of the team. Insure that there is no scapegoat or putting down of teammates or coaches.

4. Recognize differences, and use them to the team's advantage. Often, people will be pressured to conform to group norms. In doing so, the richness of creativity and new idea can be lost.