Scenarios
Based on what you have now learned, how might you approach some of the following scenarios in addition to the suggestions provided below?
Scenario 1
A player on a youth team has conflict with another player over something that happened at school. It is starting to create division among the players as they are pushed to choose which teammate to support.
- Pull the two players aside and remind them of their common interest in Rugby, and the important impact that they can have on team unity in this moment.
- Talk to the whole team about the importance of seeing past off-field differences to build team unity and reach common goals.
- Ask both players to assist in a team relationship-building event at the next practice.
Scenario 2
The U15 team that you coach has many players from diverse backgrounds, and some players with different skin tone or accents seem to be shy and staying on the edges of the group.
- Arrange some relationship-building activities to build connections and appreciation for the diversity on the team.
- Ask some of the team leaders to reach out and include the others.
- Plan some challenges that require teamwork to accomplish, and celebrate everyone’s contributions to the result.
Scenario 3
The adult lower-division women’s team that you coach is not excited about the intense fitness programs you have developed to improve their performance. They seem more interested in the social side of the sport than improving their performance.
- Ask them to determine their team and individual goals so that you can plan accordingly
- Offer optional fitness programs for the players that want to use them.