The success of any team depends on the relationships in and outside the playing ground. It is the responsibility of the coach to lead the team towards successful seasons, and coaches understand that strong relationships among team members are as meaningful as a win. Good relationships motivate players and help the coach understand what drives them individually. Furthermore, it portrays the coach as a caring and mindful person. Based on this week’s reading and training materials, solid relationships for a sports chaplain are crucial factor that contributes to wise preparation (Egli & Fisher, 2016). The reading emphasizes relationships as a significant part of any ministry and gives a better understanding of how good relationships are essential in the life of a sports chaplain. For sports chaplains to grow, they must invest in relationships. Good relationships equip them with the necessary skills to lead their followers.
Sports chaplains looking to develop their careers must have faith as one key to a good relationship with others. The discussion reflected on Christian identity and the role of Christianity in fostering long-lasting relationships (Egli & Fisher, 2016). From the bible verses discussed in the classrooms and consultation sessions, I believe that having a solid relationship with God helps chaplains develop strong relationships with people. Since chaplains must be heard, they must seek God through prayer. Prayer helps them connect with God to seek wisdom on managing their followers.
Having a solid relationship with the coach is another vital aspect a sports chaplain must consider. Without a good relationship with the coach, it becomes difficult for a chaplain to be incorporated into any sports event. Only the coach has access to different sports programs (Egli & Fisher, 2016). A sports chaplain must always respect the coach’s wishes to develop the trust necessary for opening new opportunities. Additionally, having a good relationship with the athletes may also help sports chaplains prosper in their future endeavors. The chaplain should create time for athletes, listen to their concerns inside and outside the pitch, and advise them where necessary. Creating a solid presence in the lives of athletes fosters long-lasting relationships.
Another critical aspect necessary for the growth of a sports chaplain is communication. Clear communication allows the chaplain to manage, direct, and lead other team members. Quality communication with the team encourages the free expression of concerns and ideas to benefit everyone (Waller, 2016). The chaplain should consider every team member individually to determine the best form of communication. Without good communication, team members will miss important updates, and those privileged to get updates will not respond. Positive reinforcement can also help sports chaplains accomplish their personal goals. It requires constant positive support and encouragement from team members and the coach. The chaplain will find the inner motivation to continue improving individually.
I would suggest the Bible as the best reading for a chaplain. The Bible is the best book since it has different stories. It consists of love stories, religious stories, war stories, conflict resolution stories, and ethical stories (Waller, 2016). It is an inclusive book full of guidance and positive vibes. Additionally, the Bible is a readily available book that fits people from all walks of life irrespective of age and gender. People can always find refuge in the Bible when they are law, confused, and need advice. The Bible offers answers to every life situation and comforts all difficulties.
References
Egli, T. J., & Fisher, L. A. (2016). Moving toward a faithful relationship: Sport psychology consultants speak about the potential of engaging with spirituality in consultation. In Sports Chaplaincy (pp. 190-201). Routledge.
Waller, S. N. (2016). Chaplain or Sports Chaplain First?: Why Identity Formation Should Matter to Sports Chaplains. Practical Theology, 9(3), 242-257.