Disclaimer: “This article has been produced by an independent contributor and does not reflect the views and opinions of the SRCMS team or the brand as a whole.”
When it comes to the world of sports, communication is key to a high-functioning team. Communication is also integral to success on and off the field.
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for disputes, grievances, and issues to arise within the team.
There are several types of disputes within the sporting environment, including:
- Athlete-to-athlete disputes
- Coach-to-athlete disputes
- Coach-to-coach disputes
- Athlete-to-manager disputes
- Coach-to-manager disputes
Open conflict can cause issues within the team dynamics (arguments, blaming and discrediting). However, there is an even greater danger of quiet, unresolved conflicts simply continuing to fester- without any resolution, or open discussion on the topic.
It’s these instances that cause the greatest imbalance within the team, and prevent athletes, coaches, and managers alike from functioning in harmony.
As such, it is critical that team leaders, coaches and managers make it a priority to address any grievances or disputes quickly and proactively, to avoid potential long-term problems within the team or club.
Fortunately, there is a simple, straightforward solution for resolving these disputes: Sports Mediation!
Why Is Sports Mediation A Good Solution For Resolving Internal Team Conflict?
Communication is critical in a high functioning team. This is especially important for athletes competing together, as a lack of communication and trust can result in the loss of a game, or a season.
Unfortunately, too many clubs, teams and coaches prefer to either:
- Reprimand the players in question
- Encourage the players to ignore the problem and move on
As such, there is no opportunity for resolution and open communication.
This typically leads to strained relationships, a lack of communication, and an unpleasant environment for everyone involved.
Mediation, however, provides and opportunity for players and team members to openly discuss any problems or grievances.
By openly discussing theses issues in a controlled and carefully mediated environment (by a non-biased, professional mediator), parties have the opportunity to:
- Put aside preconceived ideas about each other
- Communicate respectfully and patiently
- Get the support they need in coming to a solution
- Compromise and communicate, in order to reach a peaceful and amicable solution to suit both parties
- Continue to collaborate and work together as a team moving forward
As such, the mediation process usually results in both parties feeling understood, in-control and satisfied with the outcome (especially as both parties must agree to the resolution!).
This is absolutely key to encouraging high-performance and open communication moving forward, and is a positive way to support your team, facilitate differences and foster inclusivity and healthy relationships.
What’s Involved In The Mediation Process?
At this point, you might be wondering what exactly is included in the mediation process. Fortunately, the process itself is relatively straightforward, and is usually processed within 45 days.
- Mediation is a confidential and flexible process where people involved in a dispute come together to try and resolve an issue or reach a negotiated settlement. An impartial third-party mediator facilitates this process.
- In order for mediation to take place, the parties must agree to participate in the process. The mediator does not make a decision about the issues in dispute but rather assists the parties to seek to resolve it. The parties’ control whether an agreement is reached, and the terms of any agreement reached.
- If you wish, the mediation can be conducted by online video conference
- Each party will have the opportunity to put forward their side of the story and any facts or evidence they wish to rely on. The mediator will guide and support the parties throughout the process.
Interested In Starting The Sports Mediation Process?
The team of legal mediation experts at SRDMS are here to help guide you through the mediation process and reach the best possible outcome for all parties. You can do it 100% online or opt to use a managed service where the SRDMS personnel do everything for you, from start to finish.
Want to know more, or enquire about your sporting dispute? Simply fill out the form on the contact page and they’ll be in touch.
References:
https://sportsconflict.org/sports-mediation-can-improve-team-performance/
https://www.sportsmediationservice.org.nz/