16 Apr 2018

Developing a successful culture – Part 1

Top teams in the world have always had a wonderful ability and resources to attract the best talent in the world, these players then come in with performances that lift the entire team and continue a level of success within that team, however, top talent isn’t the only way to the top. There is also culture.

Just look at the recent case of Leicester City F.C, especially in their 15/16 Premier League winning season.

But how does the average teamwork to develop a successful culture, or encourage high levels of chemistry between their players? Well, it should never be expected or forced – but when an opportunity to improve arises, coaches should make sure to take note of the following suggestions. Lets see how deep you players dig when the odds are stacked against them!

Get to know your team’s existing culture, or lack of it.

If your players have played together for a while, how are they communicating with each other? Are certain players getting frustrated and showing a lack of effort when things don’t go their way? Maybe, we need to work on the team as a collective unit. Do what you can to encourage players to friends as well as teammates on the pitch, they’ll start feeling much more responsible with those that surround them. The more they feel comfortable around eachother, the more they’ll begin to understand how the others play and play can become a lot more dynamic when there is this level of understanding.

Encourage self-worth in balance

Every player must have confidence, it’s the level of confidence and the situation it’s applied with that is the varying factor here. Some players can feel so responsible for the success of a team, that they don’t trust other ‘less-skilled’ players to do the best for the team. Whereas we believe that team culture is best when everyone plays their part, it works even better when everyone knows their strengths… and weaknesses.

Confidence should then be encouraged wherever possible, unless this affects the team around him. The individual should have the confidence in their own ability, but also, belief in their teammates. Comments from coaches and players alike will contribute to this, so speak positively and promote others to do this also. It’s very beneficial for the players to be able communicate, try your best to understand how they are feeling.

This article is continued in part 2 here