It’s not just about how you play the game
Katherine DeClerq | Fulcrum Staff
WATCHING A SPORTS game is exhilarating. Over the last week, I’ve attended three playoff games and watched two online, and I have to say I was impressed. The power and speed at which these athletes play are incredible. But what is even more incredible is the spirit, determination, and enthusiasm each athlete maintains throughout the 40–80 minutes they are in the game.
I usually don’t take time to notice the intricacies of the team support system that accompanies a victory—that is, until the playoffs. Our staff writer typically covers the volleyball beat, but when the squad made it to the Ontario University Athletic Final Four, I decided it was about time I went to see the team play. And I’ve never seen a group of girls so happy to be on that court.
The enthusiasm of the team was genuine, and they supported each other wholly, regardless of whether the play went according to plan. After every play they grouped up, patted each other on the back, smiled, and continued to play. Even when they were down in the set they would offer words of encouragement and a smile.
This team spirit can also be found in the pre-game drills, where the team will set up a play, execute it, and run to the back of the line—high-fiving teammates on the way. The basketball team does this as well in their drills, while the hockey teams congratulate players coming on and off the ice during a game.
This all makes me wonder about the impact that team cooperation and enthusiasm have on sporting success. Just from my recollection, the U of O football team got frustrated easily when the score didn’t go their way and although they did huddle after each play, it was more to discuss strategy than to offer words of encouragement. Our men’s basketball team was the same way—they meshed well athletically but showed very few overt expressions of team support. Both teams ended the playoff season in the first round or two (although the basketball season was very close.)
I’m not going to pretend there is a direct correlation between winning and team spirit—any student who takes a stats class knows correlation does not mean causation—but I will note that it was impressive to see teams who were competing in such aggressive conferences have the energy to remain determined and supportive.
It’s one thing to be able to play the sport, but to keep composed and enthusiastic even when the going gets tough—well, that’s a whole other game.
