what do you play?

In championship sports cultures, success is often built upon more than just athletic skill — it’s shaped by the collective mindset and behaviors of the team. The 10 things teammates don’t let each other do, as shared by leadership expert Jeff Janssen, highlight essential principles to maintain harmony and drive peak performance. First, cutting corners compromises the integrity of the team’s work ethic and can create distrust. Every member must commit fully to ensure success is earned genuinely. Next, whining and complaining not only bring down morale but also distract focus from solutions and growth opportunities. Positive communication fosters resilience when facing challenges. Excuses are often the enemy of progress. A championship culture encourages accountability where players accept responsibility and learn from mistakes rather than deflecting blame. Similarly, acting selfishly can fracture team unity; true champions put team goals above personal achievements. Disrespecting teammates damages relationships and can create a toxic environment that hinders collaboration. Equally, dividing the team weakens collective strength and reduces the synergy required to win. High-performing teams support one another relentlessly, celebrating successes and providing constructive support during setbacks. Trash-talking coaches undermines leadership and damages the trust that holds a team together. Respect for coaching staff builds a foundation of discipline and guidance essential to development. Embarrassing the program or team publicly reflects poorly on all members and detracts from shared pride. Giving up or displaying a defeatist attitude is the opposite of championship mentality. Persistence and grit keep teams competitive during tough moments. Finally, letting teammates down by failing to uphold these standards weakens the team’s effectiveness and spirit. By understanding and internalizing these 10 principles, athletes can help establish a championship culture where every teammate feels valued, respected, and motivated. This foundation empowers teams to overcome adversity, perform cohesively, and ultimately achieve lasting success. Reflecting on these behaviors can inspire leaders and players at all levels to elevate their team dynamics and foster winning environments.