Teamwork: Lessons from Nikola Jokic, Magic Johnson and the Apostle Paul
INSIGHTS FROM ATHLETES:
Nikola Jokic once said that an assist makes two people happy. When you score unassisted, only one person is happy.
Magic Johnson noted "Ask not what your teammates can do for you; ask your teammates what you can do for them."
INSIGHTS FROM THE BIBLE:
The apostle Paul writes in Philippians 2:14: “Do everything WITHOUT GRUMBLING OR ARGUING, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.”
The context of this verse is within a larger passage where Paul is encouraging the the Christian community in Philippi (modern-day Greece) to have the same mindset as Christ, who humbled himself and became obedient to God, even to the point of death on the cross. Paul uses Christ as the ultimate example of humility and selflessness. Paul wrote the letter while imprisoned, likely in Rome.
Imagine if all players and teams were able to approach their activities without grumbling or arguing with one another?
WHY IT MATTERS FOR YOUTH ATHLETES:
Being a good teammate extends far beyond the court. You will be in teams throughout your life, whether in the workplace, as a family member, church and/or contributor to the community.
In the workplace, the ability to collaborate effectively, support colleagues and communicate positively are essential skills. Just as we aspire for players to all support one another - whether they are the star of the team or a bench player - the workplace needs team players who can share in one another's successes.
As family members, being a good teammate means supporting and encouraging one another through both victories and challenges.
Whether through volunteering, participating in community projects, or simply being a good neighbor, being a good teammate can positively impact the community at large.
QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:
1. When have you been a poor teammate in the past?
2. There will be times when things don't go your way as part of our team. Maybe you didn't get the playing time you wanted. Or you played poorly. How can you still be a good teammate in the midst of this?
Devotional by Kevin Anselmo, Editor of the Championing Character in Youth Sports Substack
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