I’m looking forward to talking “team” with colleagues in Cambodia this week. Building teams is one of the most rewarding things I do. It’s a privilege to speak into the life of teams, help them grow and cheer them on.

As many of you know, building a healthy, vibrant team isn’t easy. Sometimes it can be a hard grind. But the rewards of being part of a thriving team are many. I know the pain of being in an unhealthy team, which makes me very thankful for the great teams I have served on. It’s so life-giving to pursue a compelling vision and make a tangible difference alongside others, while also sharing in the highs, lows and in-between that comes with genuine community.

As I prepare for this week’s team gathering, I pulled the attached gem from the photo archives. This is my first team experience. I played halfback in the premiership winning Under 7 Western Suburbs Rosellas side. I don’t think it will be that hard to spot me. And have a look at the 1970s fashion of my coach and manager!

Our coach, Mr Gearing, [on the left] used his words sparingly and kept it simple for a group of six-year-olds. All these years later, I can still recall these three regular reminders.

“Don’t drop the pill boys. You can’t win without it.”

“It doesn’t matter how big they are. They all have legs and fall over when you tackle them.”

“No hogs, play as a team.”

That last quote from my first coach reminds me of a comment from the legendary Jack Gibson, one of the code’s most successful coaches.

“A team of champions will win some games, but a champion team wins premierships.”

That’s good Jack – thank you!

And what is one sure thing I have learned over the years about how “champion teams” are cultivated? They grow, as team members [particularly team leaders] regularly and courageously take stock of their life, ego, attitudes, behaviours and the way they treat others. They grow as team members [particularly team leaders] value humility, growing self-awareness, championing others over self and dealing with the poison of power!

I’m so thankful for the team of teams I lead across the world. I’m thankful for leadership gifts and strengths cultivated over many years. But I am very mindful that those who sit on the other side of me see my blind spots. They know I am still a work in progress as a leader. I am fortunate they are gracious, forgiving, encouraging and kind.

There’s nothing like being part of a great team. Cherish it. Work at it. Enjoy it. Don’t drop the pill! And keep turning up, humbly remembering your attitudes and actions will today build up or tear down the team you serve in.