Excellence is a never-ending journey, says Rowe

Technical Director employed by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation Colwyn Rowe, sharing his thoughts on how to create a culture of excellence, has expressed it is a never ending journey.{{more}}

Rowe, the featured speaker at the 2010-2011 SVGFF’s Awards and Presentation Ceremony, staged at the Golden Apple Banquet Hall on the night of Saturday, June 18, outlined the path towards excellence.

“It gives a clear outlook on what is expected in terms of behavior, contribution; we play as individuals within the environment of the team. It’s a continuous search to be better as a team, to constantly improve and eventually understand this is a never ending journey,” Rowe said.

Rowe dismissed the notion by some coaches that people or their players will change for the better, in an environment lacking guidance or transfer of knowledge. Instead, he proposed that coaches must create environments which foster growth and development.

Sharing his views of creating that culture, Rowe, an Englishman, stated: “The culture of excellence becomes like a psychological, social glue; it binds all together; it creates an environment that will eventually shape us all on how we behave, how we think, who we are; so when our team goes out on that football pitch, it will be represented out there.”

“A culture of excellence creates an atmosphere within our team, club environment that shapes people in how they think. It helps shape people in what they believe; at best, the culture is everywhere, on the field, throughout the way they think, it is throughout how we live, for example sleep patterns, what we eat, etc,” he continued.

Rowe, who has been this country’s Technical Director of Football for the past five and a half months, likened a culture of excellence to religious beliefs and practices.

“For me it is almost like going to church, as I am sure religious people do not go to church, step into the church then begin to think about religion. I believe that committed athletes and coaches are constantly occupied with what it is and where it is they want to go,” Rowe said.

Rowe said that there are practical benefits of having a culture of excellence within teams and clubs.

He remarked: “It decreases turnover, both players and staff, as it becomes a place where they want to be, in that players and staff actually enjoy the environment.”

Rowe reminded those present of what research recommends in making the linkage with excellence.

“If we look at research, it suggests that world class performers need 10, 000 hours of practice to get there. If we equate that into a professional football coach, it means 300 matches to include preparation and everything else that goes into preparing a team for 300 matches,” the Technical Director told those in attendance.

The Awards and Presentation Ceremony recognized the top performers in the Premier and First Divisions of the National Lotteries Authority National Club Championships, as well as paid homage to eight persons who have contributed to football in St. Vincent and the Grenadines over the years. (RT)