Teamwork activities help athletes work together better, which may carry over to the playing field. A more cohesive group of players increases the chances of success in a team sport. The Gatorade Sports Science Institute mentions five components of teamwork: communication, positive attitudes, motivation, discipline and the idea of a team ego rather than individual egos. Fitting in teamwork activities during practice may help improve these areas.
Teamwork Minefield
This teamwork activity begins with a discussion of things that might break down the group, such as worrying more about your own play or talking negatively about teammates. An object is thrown out into the playing area for each item listed to represent the teamwork mines. When the area has several mines in it, the players are paired off, with one person in each pair blindfolded. The seeing partner guides the blindfolded partner through the minefield with only verbal instructions without hitting any of the mines.
Shrinking Sheet
A sheet large enough for all team members to stand on is the base for this teamwork activity described on the Oak Harbor Cheer website. The sheet is folded to make it smaller, with the team members once again all standing on it. Continue folding the sheet to make the area smaller. The team members will have to work together to get everyone on the smaller sheet area.
Group Goals
Setting group goals helps the players think like a team rather than focus on their individual goals in the sport. Hold a brainstorming session to create a list of team goals. They might pertain specifically to the sport, such as improving on the team's record, or stretch beyond the field, such as learning more about one another. Pick one or two main goals from the list. Create a plan for achieving those goals that includes the time line, steps to achieve the goal and roadblocks that might get in the way. Refer back to those goals to keep the team working toward them.
Discussion Time
A chance to get to know one another on a more personal level helps build a sense of team between the players. Taking a personal interest in teammates may create stronger bonds that transfer to the playing field. Sit in a circle with a soft ball. The person with the ball asks a question and then tosses the ball to someone else. The person receiving the ball answers the question. She then asks a question and tosses the ball.
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