This was my big summer learning. During a soccer practice, we were hearing from our coach that we needed to pass the ball more, and this is what Veronica dared to declare:“When I have the ball, I can’t see anything else!”
All but one of us learned how to play soccer this summer. We had a year of drills and practice and then it was time to really do it – we had to learn what to do while the game is underway. A different beast entirely. And our discussion as a team reveals a lot about how communities work too. Here is what we noticed:
I often panic when I have the ball.
By making an effort to move the ball, I risk losing it. But risk of losing the ball is higher if I just kick it in panic.
I play best when I risk losing the ball.
I need others to tell me what they see, in the moment. They will see things I can not see.
For the team to see what is happening on the field, I have to trust my team.
I don’t have to be comfortable with the ball, or the situation, to see what else is going on.
I have to notice what my strengths and weaknesses are, as well as my teammates, to move the ball effectively.
The game works best when every player is a part of the game – whether they have the ball or not.
As I reflect on my leadership, planning and coaching practice, these questions are unavoidable:
What is my community ‘ball’?
Am I brave enough to make Veronica declarations?
Do I even know if I have the ball?
Am I the right person to have the ball? Should someone else have it?
Does the team see the field?
Are we still having fun?
I am thrilled to have such a great, bold and honest group of people to learn with. Game One
2 thoughts on “When I have the ball, I can’t see anything else!”
Oh! Beth! You are so right! I agree with you and I believe we improved in one or other skills. I’d like to learn every point you make, hopfully with time, hahaha. But I think in some way everybody found something that we didn’t know we had. One thing is sure: we had a lot of fun!!!
Oh! Beth! You are so right! I agree with you and I believe we improved in one or other skills. I’d like to learn every point you make, hopfully with time, hahaha. But I think in some way everybody found something that we didn’t know we had. One thing is sure: we had a lot of fun!!!
I think there is no end to what we will learn about soccer, or otherwise. And I always learn so much more when I am enjoying myself.