Many of us had the opportunity to hear Kevin Deshazo speak this past summer at NACDA 2017 in Dallas. So I thought it would be fitting to incorporate his recent launch of his book into a short blog post. As a current leader and one that is always aspiring to learn more, his book “Leadership Interrupted” is a great read for all athletic administrators. And one that I think can relate to this transition time of the year!
Since his presentation at NACDA, I’ve worn the bracelet that was given away that reads “Culture Wins Championships.” That statement is something I always believed in and tried to live by, to have something visible every day was a great reminder of our mission personally and professionally.
As we transition from Fall Sports to Winter Sports, your team cultures will be tested as deadlines become close, the number of hours you work goes up, and everyone is going in multiple directions, all the while trying to put on the best experience for your fans, alumni, and student-athletes. It is important as a leader at this stressful time is to stay cognizant of your team’s culture. You won’t want to lose all the time you’ve spent building your team or teams up to let it slip away at this point and time. A team culture that manifests the right way over time will conquer any challenges that may come their way at this crazy time of the year.
When you hear a coach after their team has won a game or championship, nine out of ten times they will point to the culture of his or her team. There is no doubt your success as a leader will be derived by the culture you have a hand in creating. It is not limited to athletic teams. It can be the small team you are on at work, the entire external relations department, the entire athletic department, or the university. It can also relate to you personally. What is the culture that is created at home, on the youth team you coach, the local community committee you participate on? However, your specific culture is created, you will see the results and they will produce rewarding championship experiences.
So in the upcoming weeks, as the leader of your unit or department, keep your culture top of mind. You will want to keep everyone rowing in the same direction because when this happens your culture will make all your goals become reality!
Culture Wins Championships!