Cycles

You hear the saying "everything runs in cycles." And indeed, we know of long-term climate patterns, seasons, investment and credit cycles, and others. Some cycles are caused by human behavior, therefore immutable. Others are less certain.

In athletics, the playing field isn't always level. The "big-market" teams in baseball have an advantage over small market teams, but in other sports, like football, coaching makes a difference, with the Belichicks and Cowhers of the world outperforming.

But what about high school sports? Surely population differences play a role, but that wouldn't explain why a Watertown dominates in field hockey or Melrose's volleyball success.

Coaching, infrastructure (youth development), community support, tradition, and other factors play roles. For example, promising athletes who would do well in another sport might choose (volleyball). Volleyball might become the "family" sport in an athletic family.

What of 'tradition'? As a youngster, I remember Lexington boys' basketball dominating, having won three consecutive state championships (1970-1972). Coach Sonny Lane told us the only reason they beat us was "it said LEXINGTON on their uniforms."  He needed to convince us that we were better than they were.

Cycles don't last in perpetuity. But do all you can do to maximize a cycle working in your favor.