Swimming is More Than an Individual Sport
Swimming might seem like an individual sport. Nonetheless, any swimmer that has gone through a distance practice or an extended set knows that they would not have done it without the person swimming next to them. Your teammates in college will add to your life, and some will become lifetime friends.
The only person that can understand what a swimmer is going through is another swimmer. Relying on your teammates at the peak of the season is a must. You might feel misunderstood when you talk to someone that is not a swimmer. Your teammates become your second family. You might spend more time with them than with any relative. Having a good relationship with your teammates will bring out the best of you during practice and at meets.
You Are Not Going To Like Everyone
Accepting that you might not like or agree with everyone on your team is a good start. Drama will occur. Differences and arguments will happen. Nevertheless, being a good teammate means learning to separate your differences and fight for a common goal. Be respectful, kind, and comprehensive. You never know what that person is going through.
Swimming prepares you for real life. Training in the water is your closest situation to the work office. You will work with people who are not 100% to your liking. However, you will have to learn to handle your differences to work together for the team.
Cheering For Your Teammates
You and your teammates are the only ones who know the physical pain you are going through at practice or during the last 25 yards of a race. Cheering for your teammates in a big championship can be the difference between winning or losing a title. Fist-bumping a teammate after a complex set makes everyone feel better. Reminding your teammates how well they do during practice will make the set feel shorter and painless.
Moreover, assure you recognize when a teammate does an excellent job racing. Be happy for them and ensure they know you are proud of them.
The Truth Always Hurts
Being a good teammate also means telling your mates when they are doing something affecting the team culture. Calling out people might be an unconformable situation, but it might be the right thing to do as a wakeup call. If you see your teammates doing something wrong in the pool or lifting room, let them know. Find the right time and words to talk to your teammate about what they can do better to improve.
Get To Know Teammates
Forget about swimming for one second and think about your teammates outside of the pool. They have gone through challenging situations that you might not know about and have marked their life. Go deeper and get to know that person who you spend 20 hours per week with. Care about your lane mate as if they were friends and not competition. Inspire and influence them by showing them how much you care. Take the time to listen.
Last but not least, your teammates will always be your competition in swimming. Yet, your competition will constantly challenge and bring out the best of you. Turn it into a healthy competition that will make you grow and flourish. There is nothing better than racing next to your best friend, seeing them accomplish their goals, and feeling part of it.