It seems like everyone is talking about Florida Gulf Coast University right now. And they should be, because of what a special team this is. Not only did they pull off the big upset, knocking off No. 2 seed Georgetown, they backed it up by advancing to the Sweet 16.
Being the underdog is sometimes a competitive edge. You fight with the grit and determination of team with something to prove and nothing to lose. But FGCU has continued it’s momentum to show they belong. Their second tournament win demonstrated more about the characteristics of their coach and team. No matter what the result is against the Florida Gators, FGCU can be proud of its accomplishments. The team’s collaboration and leadership has been on full display in the tournament and is a huge reason for the team’s success.
Trust
Trust is the foundation of teamwork and true collaboration. Author Patrick Lencioni describes this vulnerability based trust, as the key to authentically connecting and trusting as a team. Vulnerability based trust occurs when team members feel that they can genuinely share with one another. To achieve such success, a team has to be able to openly critique, ask questions, ask for help, and work together as only a group who truly trusts one another can.
Teamwork
Collaboration is a strategic decision and team members must buy in to their role and the group. Buy-in occurs when all members of the team agree and make the conscious decision to work together and identify themselves as a united team. Each member must invest time and make the sacrifices necessary to be a team. The members of the FGCU team embrace their individual roles within the collective team.
Putting Team First
FGCU players learned to put their team first and accept their roles in order to make it the most successful team they could. They care just as much about assists as they do buckets. That’s unique.
Leadership
Leadership sets the tone. Coach Andy Enfield’s passion, drive, and commitment to the team earned his players’ total buy in. Coach Enfield’s passion for coaching is about helping these young men achieve their potential individually and collectively. This passion spreads through the entire team and makes every member of the FGCU Eagles eager to collaborate, buy in, and put their team first.
