21 Ways to Be a Great Teammate

Yesterday, FLG 2020 Girls Coach Bob Schmitt walked into the FLG office with a book titled, The Hard Hat. After I inquired about the book Bob was holding, he said, “this is a must read, once you pick it up you won’t want to put it down.” Boy was he right. I simple could not put the book down once I dove inside. In The Hard Hat, author Jon Gordon features:

• The true story of George Board, his team and their legacy
• Insights from George’s teammates
• Exercises to help you build a great team
• 21 ways to be a great teammate

Jon Gordon takes the story of someone who did so many things the right way to educate readers on what it takes to be a great teammate, young man, and society member. I hope that George Boiardi’s legacy continues to spread and educate future generations of studletes. Below I’ve summarized Jon Gordon’s lessons on being a great teammate. This post is in honor of a true studlete, role model, and leader.

21 Ways to Be a Great Teammate *From Jon Gordon’s The Hard Hat in honor of George Boiardi

1. As a team member, one of the things you control each day is your effort. Effort is a cornerstone value that you can control and allow oneself to be the best.
2. While well done is greater than well said, don’t just show effort, demand it vocally to your teammates.
3. The key to success is be a life-long learner. Stay humble and hungry along the way.
4. Try to be the best you can be. Pursue excellence. Give more percent of yourself each opportunity you get.
5. Stay positive and spread that positivity.
6. Don’t complain.
7. Work hard for your team. Put your team first. Give credit where credit is due.
8. If you want commitment, be committed.
9. Be consistent in your attitude, effort, and actions.
10. Before you expect the best of yourself, you can expect the best from your team.
11. If you respect everyone, they will respect you
12. Be an energy fountain, not a drain.
13. Without communication, you can’t build trusting relationships
14. Connect with your teammates. Get to know them as people on and off the field.
15. Greatness is a focus a focus on making oneself better and ones team better.
16. Be selfless.
17. Show you care, don’t just say how much you care.
18. Be a loyal friend to  your teammates.
19. Love your team first. Commit to that. They will then love you back.
20. Be willing to sacrifice some of your wants for what the team needs.
21. Leave the place better than you found it.