“Two are better than one,
because they have a good reward for their toil.
For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.”
– Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (ESV)

It’s not easy to build a TEAM. As coaches, we are asked to take a group of individuals and mold them into a single unit seeking a common goal. We mix seasoned veterans with untested rookies. We fight selfishness, entitlement and a lack of commitment every day. Slowly and consistently, we teach our athletes that it’s not about where you come from, who your parents are or what you did last year that matters. It’s about attitude, effort and a willingness to be part of something bigger than yourself. It’s about coming to work every day with a desire to get better as an individual and as a TEAM. It’s about making personal sacrifices for the good of the TEAM. It’s about learning that the best TEAMS play for one another, not just with each other.

Everyone knows that Solomon was a wise man—the wisest man to ever live. His words speak loud and clear today, just as they did when they were first spoken. Solomon knew the importance of being on a TEAM. Cooperating and working with others has great advantages. I believe God has designed us to connect and work together with others. He didn’t create us to be alone. Some people prefer isolation thinking that they can’t trust anyone. We must remember that we were not put on earth to serve ourselves, but to serve God and others. Don’t isolate yourself and try to go it alone. Seek out others—be part of the TEAM. It may be your family, it may be your coaching staff, it may be your church. They all need you—and you need them.

Heavenly Father, I am humbled to be a part of Your TEAM. Satan knows that I am weak when I am alone. Bring me TEAMMATES today that will help make the work lighter and more enjoyable. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.