The Importance of Team Bonding
Coaching and competing in the AAU circuit is and can be tough. The competitive environment we find ourselves in can be an incredibly stressful situation that can create barriers with each other even if we have similar goals. Some folks realize how these barriers are created in an early stage of their experiences of life and are usually OK with not really understanding the other person or need a special bond to work well with others. However, the benefit in creating that special bond in a work environment or on a basketball court really makes a difference in overall performance.
Team bonding can come in different forms, in our case, we had the opportunity to gather our teams together and have a team bonding night at the Stockton Kings season opener against the Santa Cruz Warriors. Both these teams are affiliated with the NBA and compete in the G-League.
Bonding Events During the Kings Game
After speaking with our representative at the Stockton Kings, we found a perfect match for what our goal was with the teams. What better way to bond as teammates and parents than going to something they already enjoy! Practices and games there is limited time to get to really know your teammate and outside of the few hours you spend together during the week, there is no real time to hang out as a team unless planned out.
At the Stockton Arena, we were escorted onto the court to participate in the opening night “tunnel buddies” program the Kings had put together for us. Long description short, the teams got to participate in welcoming the players to the court and got to watch the opening ceremonies from the sideline. They had an absolute blast!
Once all the opening ceremonies were concluded, our group made way to our seats and gathered snacks along the way. It was family night so that meant $4 unlimited pop-corn, $2 hot-dogs, and $1 drinks. With the players and kids satisfied and excited, we enjoyed the game from some great seats.
Closing Events
The night didn’t end with just a great victory for the home team but a great time for the kids as well. At the end of the game, the teams had an opportunity to take a few shots on the court. The group made their way back out to the court as the game concluded and was able to interact more with the opposing team and entertainers who were court side leaving or getting ready to perform.
Overall, the experience was great and just right for the group. The players walked away with a better bond and a great night out. Over the last few weeks, I have seen the growth in the player’s chemistry on the court and has been helpful with the team bonds as a whole.
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