Part 6/10:
“Embracing the pressure,” as one player put it, is crucial when facing such strong opposition. The psychological challenge presented by a raucous crowd can either break or strengthen a team's resolve. The leaders are tasked not just with executing plays but with helping the younger members maintain composure amid a potentially overwhelming atmosphere.
Staying Connected
An aspect of paramount importance is team cohesion. Every player recognizes that composure will be key to weathering the inevitable ups and downs that arise within high-stress games. The recognition that an opposing team can score in bursts makes it vital for everyone to stay connected; this includes maintaining communication, trusting each other, and sticking to their game plan despite outside pressures.