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Precision Skating is meant to be done as a team right? Sure, so why then do we often find ourselves arguing? Why do we sometimes feel like we're from different planets rather than on the same team? In most cases it's normal. It's like having a brother or sister - you're bound to argue at some point or another. That's what makes precision skating different from every other sport.

What makes a team so great?

Have you ever found yourself admiring another team? You wonder why your team can't accomplish something like that. The truth is, we can all do it, whether it be a simple four-spoke, or hydro-blading in the circle. The reason these teams are so good is because they have discipline. They know what they want, and they'd do anything to accomplish their goals. They work for what they want. If some people aren't willing to work as hard as the rest of the group, they're hurting their team, and should be removed from it. The most annoying thing in precision skating is when people aren't willing to work together to accomplish something. It's a good idea to have fitness sessions to help with strength. It really looks awesome when you see a team flying across the ice.

What can you do to help your team?

There are many things you can do. If your team doesn't already do so, you could organize your own off-ice training. For example, gather all your team together about once a week, and go for a jog around your city. This not only improves your fitness ability, it also allows your team to bond. This bond is major important if you want to get somewhere. There's no way you can have people doing solos in precision skating, you have to have that special bond that keeps the team together. Jogging isn't the only thing you can do. You could hold a car wash. This not only makes money, but it's tons of fun, helps build team spirit, and if you have a water fight, improves your fitness level (by running from the water I mean). If your team has an "off-season" break during the summer months, you could have precision meetings discussing improvements for the coming season. You could pick out your music, design a dress etc. During the season, it's also a good idea to have "video" sessions. You learn tons of stuff from watching yourself on tape. Even though you may have thought you were straight, on the video you may notice that your not, and then know what you can do to fix it.

What can you do before a competition?

During competitions, there is obviously tons of tension. Trying not to be annoyed by people's "weird" behavior will help everyone. Even though you're on vacation, try to remember you're there to SKATE, not only to go to the mall and scope out guys. The team always comes first. Try to hold a couple of "togetherness" sessions to keep the butterflies from going nuts, and to calm everybody down. Just a simple walk around your hotel will do it. If you're a coach, it's your job to keep everybody calm, and to reassure. Don't let your team argue over anything. Your the boss, and you rule. Don't let your authority be questioned by anybody.

The coach knows what's best!

Coach's are there for one reason - to coach the team. If you notice a problem, try discussing it with the coach. The best time for this is after the practice, in the dressing room, so that you don't waste valuable ice time. Make sure everyone isn't talking at the same time though. The most annoying thing is when everyone tries to tell the coach what's wrong. For example, if everyone at the exact same time starts telling the coach that the lines aren't straight, he/she isn't going to hear anyone, and you're just going to waste time. Each team should have a system to know who's turn it is to talk. Perhaps just having to raise your hand before you talk. This helps prevent screaming and arguments.

Team Spirit!

Whenever you go away to a competition, try to respect other teams. For example, no matter how much you may hate a team, say good luck before they go on the ice, or congratulations after they get off. After all, that's what competitions are supposed to be about right? Try to be nice to everyone, and the next time, they might just be a little nicer to you. Trading pins is an excellent way to make new friends, and to get into the spirit of sport.