Above the Net - Tennis Tips for Life Sample

Be A Team Player

Team players play on sports teams and are people who contribute to an organization or group. You can be a valued team player at home, at work—in any setting involving others—and on the tennis court.

Jesus knew the value of a team. He enlisted the help of his disciples to accomplish the things the Father had sent him to do. The One who could quiet the storms, heal the sick, make the blind see, make the lame walk, raise the dead, and forgive sins surrounded himself with a team of common, ordinary men.

Despite their impulsive, temperamental, and sometimes offensive behaviors, the Lord saw in these men the potential for saving the world as they grew in their relationship with Him and with each other. They learned to work together, as a team, for the kingdom of God. This small team of 12 men trained together to save humanity.

If we are to grow in our game and in life, we must follow in His footsteps and become team players as well. Like the disciples, training with your teammates helps with synchronicity and success.

You may have heard the saying: “There is no I in team.” Selfless people and players make the best teammates.

It’s imperative for doubles partners to practice together. Singles players benefit as well from surrounding themselves with their teammates. Cheering each other on fuels camaraderie.

Ask yourself, in relation to your team, are you:

Committed

Communicative

Collaborative

Dependable

Enthusiastic

Focused

Flexible

Positive

Reliable

Responsible

Supportive

Trustworthy

Paul shared about teamwork in Ecclesiastes 4:12 “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” If two can help in our weaknesses and vulnerabilities, how much better to have three, four, or more working together on a team?

In the healthiest team environment, there will be freedom to develop one’s abilities, to share ideas, to make mistakes, and to learn from each other. The best teams have an environment where each member feels valued, loved, supported, and affirmed. Trust builds teamwork.

How are you supporting your team captain and teammates? A respected team player does not seek to be a one-man show, but works together with teammates, relying on their skills and abilities. Seek to use your own gifts in a cooperative way. Always work to set your partner up for success. Thankfully, like the disciples, you don’t have to be perfect, just present and willing to do your part for the benefit of the team. Today, commit to be “all in” for your team and for what God is calling you to offer on and off the court.