Learning How to Win

Young teams need to learn how to win. It's not easy. There's no stone tablet, no magic pill. 

Here are a few concepts:

1. Commit to Excellence

“Always do your best.” Be focused, coachable, present—and help your teammates shine.

Example: Whether it's practice, rest, or in game focus...be there. 

2. Create Advantage → Execute → Repeat
Earn small edges. Exploit them confidently. Make it routine. 

Example: Serve with purpose. Find the seams or the weak defender.

3. Double Down on What Works
Use data and observation to reinforce strengths. Drop or adjust what undermines performance.

Example: Dominate the middle and the pins will open.

4. DOT B: The Next-Play Breath
After every point: Stop and take a breath. 

Example: Focus completely on the next moment. 

5. Own Your Role 
Be accountable—serve, pass, dig, communicate. Regular self-assessment, looking for one percent improvement daily, creates massive long-term progress. 

Example: Keep a notebook of progress and needs. 

Benefits of This Approach

Element	Impact on Winning
Consistent Process	Builds confidence, reduces errors
Advantage Exploitation	Converts setups into points under pressure
Mindful Reset (DOT B)	Enhances composure and focus
Continuous Improvement	Adapts and evolves, prevents stagnation

Lagniappe. Have a daily plan and a long-term plan.   

Lagniappe 2. Share positive observations. 

• Sabine's focus / engagement each play continues to improve.
• Sadie's serve is better, looking for seams, weak defenders
• Adriana's back armswing during approach runup was textbook at times against Watertown. This helps her launch into attack.