The best drill teams are those who create a family atmosphere whether on the drill deck or off. Here are 5 simple ways to help bond together!
1. No Cliques!
If you’re like most drill teams, you know there are certain groups of friends or certain cliques who just stick together. Start by breaking these down at practice. When you don’t allow anyone the opportunity to group together because you’re sitting together as a team at lunch, for instance, you’re one step closer to bringing EVERYONE together. It won’t be well received at first. But be encouraging, not demeaning. Invite everyone to gather together before and after practice as well as during any down time during the day. Being inclusive and bringing everyone together and closer in proximity is a great way to start!
2. Spend Time Together!
When we go to train at most schools, we ask a simple question: Do y’all spend time together as a team outside of practice? Most of the time, the answer is, “no.” Start by organizing simple get-togethers. Make sure you invite EVERYONE. This can backfire really quick if you leave anyone out – regardless of whether you like them or not. This is the only time we’d tell you that vegging on movies all day or hanging out at Whataburger can actually make you BETTER at drill! When you get to know each other as people – and not just cadets or drillers – you start to build an appreciation for what everyone brings to the drill deck.
3. Create Something Others WANT To Be a Part Of!
What does your team do that makes it cool or unique? Do you all wear matching team gear? Do you have a handshake? Does each drill team member have some significant pin/bow/ribbon/etc.? Do you have a team chant or motto? As a team, you need something to rally around. You want something to make every member of the team want to continue to be part of the team. Start thinking about things you can do with all members of the team to stand out in your school and in your community.
4. Make Everyone Feel Necessary!
When everyone feels empowered and part of the team’s goals, everyone gets stronger. Don’t get us wrong – we are NOT saying to “baby” anyone. But creating a culture where everyone understands their individual responsibilities to the team and how their actions contribute to the benefit of the group is very healthy and keeps everyone feeling part of the group!
5. Remember to HAVE FUN!
Practice should be fun. That doesn’t mean you aren’t working hard but don’t forget that you do enjoy drill and the people you’re with! This will be most difficult in the middle of the season when tempers are short and patience is low. Sometimes it’s important to take a step back, take a deep breath, and remember to not take yourself so seriously. Work hard, work smart, but don’t lose sight of the fact that drill is (or should be) your “happy place!”
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