• Mary Ann "Skipper"
  • 2017
  • 0

What is the Secret to Success that Winning Doubles Teams Know?The French Open is in full swing. For those of us sports buffs, it is fun to watch play at this level. We learn strategies for both on and off the court.

I recently attended a Fed Cup match and watched singles and doubles games. One of the doubles teams was Coco Vandeweghe and Bethanie Mattek-Sands, the top ranked doubles player in the world.

According to sports psychologist, Dr. James Loehr, there are two kinds of doubles teams. One type plays like singles players who play parallel to each other. They show no eye contact and do not interact.

The other knows the secret that the best doubles teams know: The X factor.

Winning teams make an X pattern on the court between points. They connect to show a united front. They walk side by side and strategize regularly.

Coco and Bethanie would high-five and connect even when they lost the point or made a mistake.

In our relationships and teams, we can apply the X factor. The frequency and the way we communicate, connect and strategize with each other impacts the outcome. The more we interact and the more supportive we are of teammates, even when they make mistakes, the better our chances for achieving desired results.

To increase your success, focus on what you do between points, meetings or “on the court.” Practice the X factor and improve your connection and communication. You will transform your game.