Both the Philadelphia Phillies and the Tampa Bay Devils can teach us much about success. Last year Lou Pinella coached the Tampa Bay Rays. Lou was a great player, a true clutch hitter, an emotional player who could fire up those around him. As a coach though, Lou did not get along effectively with Tampa’s players. They did not respond to his type of inspiration, his yelling, and his maniacal method of communication. This year Tampa Bay under a new coach went from last place to first place, won their division and the pennant. The difference wasn’t the players; it was the managerial style. Their new manager Joe Madden is a pleasant, “we can work together” type guy.
The much-maligned Charlie Manuel manages the Phillies. The critics say he is not a good manager, he makes a lot of game management mistakes. But the players like playing for him. The result: they won their division for two straight years. This year they won the pennant and the World Series.
What both of these winning teams have is team chemistry. Every championship team talks about having it. Team Chemistry were the first words out of Charlie Manuel’s mouth when describing why he thought his team could win. Challengers talk about needing Team Chemistry, winners have it. I would argue Team Chemistry is the most important ingredient in creating a successful school.
Teachers know when they have that special class. One way we know is by how much they learn. The other is by how much they and we appreciate each other. Team Chemistry, if only it were available in pre-packaged curriculum.
November 2, 2008 at 12:56 am |
Teams need the right coach, otherwise you end up with cliques and in-groups, spending time bemoaning a lack of leadership, and not making the gains they presumably strive for. Where do the leaders come from? Can there be more than one, or does that result in both ends working against the middle?
“…and a child shall lead them…”
Who are we working for, who are we serving? Are we all in the same boat?