Sustainable Team Success

March 19, 2023

Having Sustainable Team Success...

In my 20 years involved in all levels of baseball (and any sport) I was always curious about the constant revolving door of champions; at any level. So what's the deal? What does it take to be a champion? And what do the best dynasties all have in common?Anyone on the outside looking in can say whatever they want. In the past 10 years, the Dodgers have had a top 5 highest payroll in all of baseball. Only finishing in the World Series in 3 of those years. The New York Yankees have a similar history as well. But I'll avoid that sore subject out of respect for my local friends and family. Or how about any of the basketball super teams. Seems like their success lasts less than 10 years

So if money can't buy you championships, what creates the constant championship hunger?

There's something to take from all sports. But there's something about being on the inside that's hard to describe. Nick Saban at Alabama football said they would focus on "the process". Focusing solely on the next play in front of them. He has been to 10 National championship appearances in the past 12 years. The New England Patriots are on their downfall currently but were able to succeed for about 20 years in the NFL. Bill Belichick is always rather short with his answers but somehow seemed to echo depth in his simplicity. Taking games one week at a time, one practice at a time. Seeing a trend?

So what's the answer? Well, the there is no one "answer". But it does seem like the trend around sustainable team success is focusing on those "little" things. Being present, improving the bonds (chemistry) between players, having a strong foundation to the team (past and present), and committing to a shared goal creates positive team"culture" and furthermore, sustainable success.

Thanks for reading!

Until next time. -DH