Leadership in Sport: The Power of Relationships through Communication and Connection

Written by Kelly McCallum, AUT/Northtec Sport and Recreation Lecturer

Leadership is often thought of as a solitary task, with the focus being primarily on the leader's own self-awareness and growth. However, it's important to remember that leadership is also about relationships. This is especially true in the context of team sports, where the success of a team depends heavily on the relationships between its members.

Team sports provide numerous opportunities for building relationships and developing these skills. As a former international captain and coach, I have gained a wealth of experience in leading effective relationships within a team sport setting. The key to building a foundation of effective relationships is through powerful communication and connection. Remember, people are the most important thing in the world and relationships are first and foremost in leadership.

The flick of a ponytail: nonverbal cues are simple but powerful communicators

As a leader in a team sport, the dynamics of relationships are constantly changing and evolving. It's important to maintain a strong connection with each player on the field to ensure a positive culture and a sense of unity. In high-pressure moments, clear communication is crucial, but sometimes it's the nonverbal cues that can make all the difference.

One example of a nonverbal cue I used while leading my team was the flick of my ponytail. One of my teammates told me that when I flicked my ponytail at her, she knew she would be involved in the play. From a simple flick of my ponytail, she would create the space around her to enable a successful play. It was a quick and simple cue that served as a powerful communication tool.

There is always a moment to connect, you just need to find it

There is always a moment where leaders can connect. In high-pressure situations, such as a game or a deadline, it can be easy for negative emotions and stress to take over. It's at these times that a quick moment of connection can have a powerful impact. A simple gesture, like a nod, a smile or a quick comment can help to ease tension, boost morale and keep the team focused and motivated.

One of my Canadian teammates and I played for a club team in Sydney, Australia. During a club game against a visiting team from Singapore, she scored an impressive eight tries. When we next played together on a Canadian team, I would often call out ‘Singapore’ and she would always nod and smile in recognition. This special connection that we shared was a crucial part of our relationship and these moments contributed to our success as a team.

In conclusion, connecting with your team is a critical component of effective leadership. It helps to build trust, create a positive team dynamic, and foster a sense of unity and collaboration. So, take the time to find your moment to connect with your team and make the most of it. Whether it's a smile, a quick chat or email, a moment of connection can have a lasting impact on your team and your leadership success.