Opinion: University teams need spirit captains

Editor/Writer: hazard

Let me start off by saying: I don't think spirit at University level is bad. But I do think it can be better. And I think having a spirit captain in your team is one of the good things you can do to help that.

My personal experience of having a spirit captain at Oxford University (for two years) has seemed to have a really positive impact. Case in point: last year at SEUXIR (without a spirit captain), our Men's team finished bottom in spirit. At UMIN/UMON, with a spirit captain, we finished second and first respectively (with the latter being the highest spirit score at UMWON across all divisions). There were other circumstances, but I do believe that having one person to focus on spirit helped.

So, why is having a spirit captain useful? I'm going to outline the roles I think a spirit captain should have, which should hopefully double in addressing the need for one.

1. Set a good example to your team
By being a role model to the team, a spirit captain helps set the standard. In the same way the captain sometimes needs to make a big bid to inspire the team, the spirit captain can demonstrate expected rules knowledge/hand signs/level-headedness on field.

2. Make sure spirit isn't forgotten about
When a captain has to focus on too many things at once, sometimes a few things slip. Having someone who makes sure spirit scores are done straight after a game (and that everyone is involved) can make sure spirit is a team focus.

3. Set a good example to the other team
Ideally, a spirit captain should introduce themselves to the other team's captains at the start of the game. By identifying themselves, the other captains have a specific outlet for raising any spirit issues. If possible, going over quickly at half time just to double check that there are no spirit issues that need to be raised is a great way to ensure clear communication between teams, and an enjoyable game for all involved.

4. Don't be a referee
The job of a spirit captain is not to get involved in every call. It even involves asking your teammates if you aren't sure what to do in a situation. You do have a right in WFDF rules (along with the captain) to approach any calls which are going overly long. Your job is to help them reach a conclusion, not to force them to a particular conclusion. You are still a player with your perspective on the game.

5. Have fun
To make this personal, I've really enjoyed being spirit captain whenever I've been allowed. It's great to see the positive aspect you're allowed to have on a team, and the difference that makes to your team attitude. It can be tough to be impartial sometimes. It can be tough to keep up a positive attitude every game. Every role and duty has its flaws, but this is one I think is worthwhile, both on a personal, and a team level.

Bonus advice: Get your WFDF rules accreditation (and get other people to do basic). We'd be in a lot better shape if more people had this in the UK. Also, double check the pick rules.

Spirit captain is a role specific to tournaments. It's not just something that teams struggling with spirit should consider - I think it could help any team, regardless of how spirited they currently are (as long as they have someone who takes the role seriously). Spirit is one of the things that makes this sport so great and unique, and having a spirit captain can help us as a community push it to that next level.