This blog is part of a series of four which link Olympic themes to that of a BAM startup. I apologize for those who are not sports fans and appreciate your tolerance for these four weeks.
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Frankly, I wasn’t paying much attention to the USA Women’s soccer team in the Olympics until a few days ago – I thought maybe Canada could go all the way, but none of us want to think about that story.
It has been 12 years since the US women’s soccer golden years, and the team seemed unlikely to change that in 2024. Until that is – Emma Hayes took over as coach in May of this year. Ever hear of her? I doubt it. Most of us do not follow the British women’s soccer team, Chelsea. We didn’t know their successes over the past decade. We didn’t know what a top tier coach Emma Hayes was.
And as of August 10th, USWNT is out of the doldrums with gold medals around their necks.
I am not so reductionistic to think there is a solitary reason, but I was curious about the role of Emma Hayes. The team has talent…the team has history; but how come such a turnaround in less than three months?
There is plenty of speculation as the pundits are asking the same question. While not exhaustive and extensive, I think it is fair to suggest that coaching had a lot to do with it. Why?
Players Emma set out to get to know the individual players – know their strengths, life passions, dreams for the future, joys and sadnesses in life. The net result in a very short time was that they learned to love and respect her very quickly. They accepted her efforts to get the right mix of players.
Process Emma is quoted as saying “you can’t cut corners” and “everyone has to be as prepared as possible” and that meant hard work – her style! It even meant her choice of best position which always ruffles feathers.
Purpose Emma was driven by a love for America – even though it was not her country. She is quoted as saying “I am born in the UK, but I am made in the USA.” She learned to coach while playing and coaching in New York. Her love for this country made her want to do well for the USA. She wanted America to win!
Pressure Emma stated the “pressure is a huge privilege” – ten weeks! Pressure for sure but privilege? I guess some coaches thrive on that.
So, there may be management and coaching lessons that apply to startup business owners and managers; lessons from a coach that brought change quickly. Emma Hayes would say it is important to treat the team members right, to work hard without cutting corners, have a clear purpose, and enjoy the pressure.
Think about that in your startup BAM business today.
Larry W. Sharp, BAM Support Specialist, IBEC Ventures
Larry.Sharp@ibecventures.com
Image Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emma_Hayes