The root
of successful teams is the culture. It is not something that just magically
happens. Like talent a winning culture is grown, encouraged and nurtured. What
exactly is it? Honestly I can’t quite put my finger on it. You know it when you
see it, you can sense it, it is a feeling, sometimes a state of mind. It is not
inspirational signs all over the walls, or t-shirts with slogans, it is a way
of getting it done everyday in a workmanlike manner without fanfare. It can be changed both for the better and for
worse. It is not something you can take for granted. Look around at coaches
who have successful teams and individuals they get it. It is doing the little
things consistently well. It is how you wear the uniform. How you fail as well
as how you win. It certainly is not facilities. It is people, a way of life in
sport that fosters a sense of confidence without being cocky. It may be
intangible but you know it is there.