The team that is best prepared to meet the situations as they arise will win the important games. Preparedness may be defined as a combination of confidence, spirit and teamwork, plus actual offensive and defensive skill. Tradition, incentive and desire play an important part in preparing a team. Some coaches seem to have a knack for always having their teams ready to play, while the rest of us worry about how the team will perform from game to game.
Tradition is a great equalizer.
Each year we see teams rise to unexpected heights because of tradition and school spirit. Nothing succeeds like success. Be honest with your players. Save your timeouts until needed. Teach courtesy and good manners.