Fellows Book Online Version 2020

48 The talk by Mike Fincke highlighted the similarities in team-dynamics when working under pressure in a high-performance team setting and more extreme environments such as space. Of note, Mike emphasized how their team preparation is informed by what might represent a series of worst-case scenarios. Following the example of a military technique, team preparation for the astronauts follows the principle of “you train like you fly”. A consistent understanding of the big picture is the sine qua non for any astronaut without forgetting that any task being assigned will constitute a meaningful contribution to the organization’s mission. “The topic of feedback management within the team was very interesting” said Hans Vonck (AFC Ajax) raising additional interest in understanding how it is generally dealt with amongst each other in the context of NASA. In this regard, at any organizational level, Mike pointed out how accepting constructive criticism can be invaluable to get better from both individual astronaut and team perspectives. Inspired by Mike Fincke’s talk, “The connection that was made between culture and training schedule adaptation to reach a common aim was incredible to me” said Daniel Deigan (New Zealand National Team) providing his insights from the Maori experience. The deep interconnection between the coach and the players, and its continuity across the year, was key to building a strong team-dynamic and trust. “Health of the support staff is now increasingly requiring as much attention as the focus on the individual player” was noted by Warren Gregson (Aspire Academy) highlighting such an aspect as an ongoing issue in countries like the UK. Martin Gomes (FC Porto) concurred on that by pointing out how “player-staff inequalities represent a challenge for the nature of the developmental process.” Adding to this, “feedback is critical element for player development” said Jorge Tello (Mexican Football Federation). “Trying to make sure Academy players have a clear understanding of what our core values are, and the coaching staff reiterate them on a regular basis” is essential to develop a certain type of mindset said Kevin Hartman (LA Galaxy). “The need for results at even very early developmental stages is a constraint since failure and learning from it are essential to build resilience and an operational mindset for the young player” was the remark by Jaime Torcal (Real Madrid). “One of the most difficult things is the continuity of that aspect, and often it comes as a reaction from a setback. When things suddenly go wrong, they may have deeper impact than they were experienced before in a context working to develop a team-environment” said Darragh Connolly (Juventus FC). Given the commonalities between a high-performance setting and the space environment; teamwork, culture, work ethic, and resilience emerged as the main aspects requiring attention to support the youth player development throughout the Academy process. Mike Fincke Workshop 5