Team Conflict Boat conflict is a fact of life. Sometimes, it simmers under the surface until it flares up into open warfare, catching us in the throes of intense emotion and righteous moral indignation. At that point we are not functioning at our best. Growing poison apples is appealing. When conflict is ignored, it may fester and grow to proportions that can polarize an entire club.
Members become entrenched in their positions.
Dr. Fred Neff who is a sports psychologist working with the Boston Bruins and providing conflict resolution consultation to corporate and professional sports teams suggests that changes on this level may have far-reaching effects. For example, when there is competition for limited equipment, coxswains and coaching, bickering may become normatitive behavior. This would include scheduling meetings that all team members would be required to attend. My idea of a meeting always includes some communal meal beforehand, Boston Chicken being my favorite. The group might select an ombudsman, a person whom other members could approach with their concerns, should a member not feel comfortable going to the the coach.