Splitting Time: Learning to Work Together Instead of Against Each Other

January 25, 2023
By Aubrey McLin

The topic of teamwork may seem to be a no-brainer in training, but often it’s not as successful as it could be. Mandatory team-building exercises are fine. But it can be game-changing when it’s also taught in a way that is not forced or obvious but instead subtly incorporated in games, team training development, or simply through modeling team-first behavior. Having a team-inclusive culture promotes camaraderie and helps athletes feel valued and less likely to pit themselves against each other. It demonstrates that one person cannot do everything, and each player has an active role on the team who contributes.

When I started as a youth goalkeeper, the position was not highly desired. So, I was the designated team goalkeeper for a few years. As I got older, it was more common for my teams to carry two keepers. At first, I worried about how I would feel about sharing field time. How would I measure up to the other keeper? What would that competition look and feel like?

Luckily, I’ve had clubs and development programs do an excellent job of promoting a successful goalkeeper collaboration and team environment. The focus is on working together towards a common goal instead of trying to divide players. When there is conflict among any players, it becomes toxic to the unity and goals of the team.

As athletes, we all are able to identify if our clubs did a good job of being transparent that playing time is decided on a few factors, like player performance, team need, attendance, etc. I am not speaking about playing time. I’m solely addressing creating teams where athletes learn to respect each other and cheer for one another. When players boost others up, it demonstrates to us athletes just how high we can all reach. This does not mean a player is any less ambitious, and if coaches are successful in their role, this is clearly conveyed. Others mastering strengths truly becomes all of our victories as athletes and as a team.

For the most part, all of the goalkeepers in my club and on my high school team (the GK on this team seriously has the coolest name for a keeper, Sky) and those I surround myself with are players that motivate and challenge each other. We push each other to be better. We help promote each other’s highlight reels, ECNL tournament schedules, and celebrate each of our successes. And we give each other advice, tips, and lean on one another after a difficult game or setback.

On my WPSL team, my fellow goalkeepers are mentors. I also recently connected with a goalkeeper from out of state who’s one of the 2025 Top 100 ECNL/GA players. She and I consistently support and encourage one another. Just recently, she stepped up in a big way to help me through a tough time.

And yes, I, too, have had my share of situations where this camaraderie was not always fostered–I think we all have. It is up to us to make sure we lift each other up and shine a positive light on our teammates and even our opponents.

I think female athletes should not only be taught and encouraged that we are not in competition with one another but are here to inspire each other. “When women support each other incredible things happen.”

Featured image via Adobe Stock Images; other image via Aubrey McLin