John Drury, Campus Carrier circulation director

Being a member of the Berry ultimate frisbee team, I have a unique experience, but one that can be applied to other fields: what it means to be a part of a team. We typically have a lot of players in weekend tournaments. We have seven players on the field at a time, and some may end up playing at every point during a tournament. When thinking about why one is on a sports team, it is important to consider the aspect of playing the part on and off the field.

Something that has recently changed me as an ultimate frisbee player is being at all the events even when I’m not on the field. Before adjusting my mindset, I would think, “This is the time I’ll be on the field,” which often turns out not ot be the case. I had to shift that mindset to continue successfully being on the team. 

In athletics, being on the sidelines is often required, and for good reason.  When talking with the teammates that are on almost every point in a tournament, they say that the chants and calls from the sidelines and crowd are an absolute necessity and make them want to play harder.

I used to think this is just a reason to keep me from quitting, but it’s true: why would they want a person who never plays to be there?

The thought that we would pay for 40+ people to attend a tournament only for 7-14 of them to get playing time is crazy from an outside perspective, but the team forms a tight bond. If I do my part and from the sideline, the players can perform better. If the team is up by 7 or 8 points, I have a higher chance to play when I am actually playing in a tournament, I know it’s the result of the team putting in hard work. It’s definitely not for everyone. Some people go to play and if they miss that chance, they want to leave the team, but if you’re not willing to yell for an entire game, why would we want you to play for an entire game?

This all sounds like a pep talk but it isn’t. Some people just are not meant to play in sports and that is okay; not everyone has to be a winner all the time. If you think just because you’re not a starting player for a team, you don’t have to give it your all, you’re mistaken, and no coach would want you on their team if they knew that.

I would encourage you to indulge in other team oriented activities like research groups, clubs or other team based projects. Sport principles can apply to any group based activity across various fields.