Building a Team like a Waterpolo Coach

My son is coaching a waterpolo team as his summer job. His players range from 8 to 16 years old, with varying swimming skills. Some were already strong swimmers, while others had only recently learned how to navigate the water. One day I asked him over dinner, "How do you teach kids who have never played waterpolo before?" "Well," he said, "here's what I learned from my head coach: 1. Start with the Basics We begin by teaching them the basics of swimming and water safety, especially for the younger and less experienced kids. This includes learning how to tread water and move efficiently in the pool. At the same time we introduce the essentials of waterpolo like the rules of the game, ball handling techniques, and the game's structure. Let them learn in game plays, not just drills. 2. Individualize Instructions We tailor our coaching approach to suit individual needs and skill levels. For instance, the more experienced players work on their shots and their defensive skills; beginners might still be focusing on basic swimming techniques, treading water, and basic ball handling. 3. Play as a team In waterpolo, it's critical for players to coordinate their movements, anticipate each other's actions, and collectively outsmart the opposing team. We use games to teach these concepts, urging players to share the ball, make strategic passes, and support each other in defense. 4. Persistence and have fun Perhaps the most important aspect is encouraging persistence and keep the it fun. Learning to play waterpolo can be quite challenging, especially for kids. The physical demands of swimming, the coordination needed for ball handling, and the strategic thinking involved can be daunting. Therefore, we emphasize the importance of persistence, continuous learning, and finding fun in the process." I was impressed. The head coach taught him well! It occurred to me that this was precisely the method we build a team at work. 1. Start with Basics Begin by teaching the team basic like work ethics, coding styles, best practices, design document templates, project pages, operational excellence, etc. 2. Personalize Coaching and Task Assignments Coaching and task assignments should be tailored to each team member's skill set and learning pace. While it's important to push them out of their comfort zones, initial support and guidance are equally crucial. 3. Foster a Culture of Teamwork and Collaboration Just as in waterpolo, teamwork and collaboration should be ingrained in the work culture. This involves learning to share responsibilities, make strategic decisions, and support each other in the execution of tasks. 4. Encourage Grit and a Growth Mindset Finally, cultivate a mindset of persistence, or grit, and continuous growth. Like the young waterpolo players, team members should be encouraged to face challenges head-on, learn from their experiences, and find enjoyment in the process. #teambuilding #sdm