Years ago, I had a supervisor who refused to grow or change personally and professionally. He was stuck in his ways and traditions. He did not budge on anything. His worldviews stayed constant. His attitude stayed constant. His management style stayed constant. While I applauded him for his consistency, I grew frustrated with his inability to change for the betterment of himself or the organization. The result: his entire team abandoned him within one calendar year. If the rumors are correct, he was terminated shortly after as the company focused on rebuilding the entire department.
This unwillingness to change is a common issue in the American workforce. Many companies disregard inclusive practices, and this type of neglect needs to come to an end. It has been proven time and time again that diversity and inclusion efforts not only improve any company's bottom line but also create happier and healthier work environments.
The same can be said for athletic teams. As a hockey coach, one of your top priorities should be to create a safe and inclusive environment for your players, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. This means making sure everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of their background or identity. By fostering a positive and inclusive team culture, you can help your players perform their best and develop important life skills that go beyond the rink.
The bottom line is this: inclusive approaches make for healthier players and team cultures. If you want to level up your inclusive coaching skills, here are five specific ways to accomplish this goal.
1. Learn About DEI
The first step to creating a more inclusive team culture is to educate yourself on DEI topics. DEI stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Think of it this way: diversity is how a team looks, equity is how players are treated, and inclusion is how players feel (i.e., do they feel a sense of belonging and safety). Take the time to read books, watch videos, and attend training sessions on these topics. This will help you better understand and empathize with your players, making you better equipped to create an inclusive team culture.
Practical Application: Host a DEI Workshop
Organize a workshop where an expert can educate you, your coaches, and team on DEI concepts. Include interactive activities that allow players to explore these ideas hands-on and discuss how they can apply them within the team.
2. Establish Clear Expectations and Consequences
As a hockey coach, it is important to set clear expectations for behavior and consequences for not meeting those expectations. This includes zero tolerance for bullying or harassment and making sure everyone on the team understands acceptable behaviors. By being clear and consistent, you can help prevent negative behavior and create a more positive and supportive team culture. It is important to ensure that your actions are always fair and consistent when setting these expectations and consequences. There should be no preferential treatment to maintain balance.
Practical Application: Create a Team Charter
Develop a team charter outlining the expected behaviors and consequences for violations. Have all players and staff sign it to acknowledge their commitment. Review the charter regularly to ensure everyone is on the same page.
3. Build Team Cohesion through Shared Experiences
Building team cohesion through shared experiences is one of the easiest and most beneficial ways to bring a team together. You can create a more inclusive team culture by organizing team-building exercises, community service projects, or group outings to cultural events. By participating in these activities together, players can build relationships, understand and appreciate each other's differences.
Practical Application: Monthly Team Activities
Schedule monthly activities promoting team bonding, such as escape rooms, hiking trips, or volunteering at local charities. Rotate who plans each activity to ensure diverse interests are represented.
4. Celebrate Diversity
Celebrate and appreciate the diversity of your team. This can include recognizing and celebrating different holidays or cultural events or highlighting the unique talents and strengths of individual players. By celebrating diversity, you help your players feel valued and included, fostering a more positive team culture.
Practical Application: Diversity Calendar
Create a diversity calendar marking significant cultural events and holidays. Organize small celebrations or educational sessions around these dates. Encourage players to share their traditions and experiences with the team.
5. Encourage Open Communication
Create a safe and supportive environment where players feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings with you and each other. Encourage open communication and active listening, and address any issues that arise constructively and respectfully. Promoting open communication helps create a more trusting and positive team culture.
Practical Application: Regular Check-Ins
Implement regular check-in sessions where players can voice their concerns and feedback in a safe and structured environment. Use anonymous surveys if necessary to ensure everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts.
Final Thoughts
All of the above is much easier said than done. It will take time and intentionality. However, as a hockey coach, it is important to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for your team and not give up too soon. Exclusion and isolation can lead to a lackluster experience for your players and more seriously, create disengagement, which can be disastrous for your hockey club.
By following these tips, you can create a safe and inclusive environment for your hockey team. Remember, it takes effort and commitment from everyone to create a positive team culture, but the rewards are well worth it. By fostering a more inclusive environment, you can help your players grow and develop both on and off the rink, creating lasting bonds that will serve them well throughout their lives.
