Chemistry

"United we stand, divided we fall." "One for all, All for one!" These are age old expressions of team unity. This dynamic process, which occurs when a team sticks together in pursuit of its goals, is an extremely important variable in the quest for athletic success. Success, especially in tough situations, is directly related to the type of chemistry that exists within the team.

Just as important, when evaluating team chemistry, is the level of satisfaction and personal well-being that each member feels as a result of inclusion to his/her role on the team. Also, players need to feel that others on the team (including coaches) trust them or "have their back." This trust will cease to develop if one does not work to provide consistent feedback to each athlete.

John Wooden is without question one of the most respected and honored coaches in our nations history. Although he won many Championships, it wasn't winning games that drove him. It was ensuring that, regardless of the final score, his players always put forth their utmost effort and performed to the best of their abilities, together. He also had a personal connection to each player's value, worth and role on his teams. Wooden's famous "Pyrimad of Success" was not just a formula for winning, but for character and chemistry as well. Great team chemistry, more often than not, has been the common denominator for coaches in their championship seasons. Dean Smith stated, "I think a very underrated part of championship teams is team chemistry."

Coaches need to make an undying commitment to helping their players grow as students and as individuals, in addition to helping them improve on the field. They should coach with a vision for success for each athlete and for the team, but always keep each game in the proper perspective. With that in mind, what’s more important: team goals, individual improvement or team chemistry?The correct answer is ALL OF THE ABOVE!