In sports, there are many roles that get the recognition they deserve. The coach gets recognized for putting the team together. The players get recognized for playing hard and entertaining. One role however, seems to fly under the radar. The role of team manager brings a lot to a team, when some people don’t even know there is one. In Liberty boys basketball, junior Kenzie Praytor decided she would take this role on and all of the responsibilities and time that come with it.
There are many different reasons that people will become the manager of a team. When asked why she became the manager for basketball, Praytor said, “A big reason I wanted to become a manager is because of my brother, London. I grew up watching him play, and seeing how much a team and its management can impact an athlete really inspired me. Becoming a manager felt like a way to stay connected to the team atmosphere I love, while also supporting others the way I always wanted to support him.”
Praytor’s brother was her main inspiration to become a manager, and now that he plays halfway across the country, she felt that becoming the manager would in a way keep her connected to him.
Praytor perfectly captures the essence of effective management, as she highlighted, “My favorite part of being a manager is the relationships and the energy.”
Praytor feels not only the importance of fostering a supportive and positive team environment where each member feels valued and motivated. Her role extends beyond mere task delegation; it involves nurturing talent, providing behind-the-scenes support, and maintaining order, ensuring that even when not directly in the spotlight, the manager’s contributions are pivotal. This approach not only boosts team morale but also significantly enhances overall productivity and success.
Praytor aptly describes the life of a manager, as she noted that “The time commitment can definitely be busy, but it’s manageable and honestly really fun.”
Praytor explained that she often feels the demanding yet fulfilling nature of the role. Managing practices and games creates a structured routine that many find surprisingly enjoyable. Beyond the immediate tasks, Praytor highlights the invaluable skills gained, such as enhanced time management, improved communication, and the ability to balance multiple responsibilities. These skills are not only essential for effective management but also prove beneficial in various aspects of life, making the experience both challenging and rewarding.
Praytor describes the core duties of a supportive role, as she noted, “My main responsibilities are staying organized, helping out wherever I’m needed, and just making things easier for everyone.”
Praytor’s emphasis on the importance of organization, adaptability, and clear communication in ensuring a team’s smooth operation. By focusing on the “small things,” a manager alleviates stress and allows team members to concentrate on their primary tasks, fostering an environment of reliability and support that is crucial for collective success.
Praytor highlights the vital role of interpersonal connections in fostering a positive team environment, as she stated, “I support team morale by building real friendships and bringing good energy.”
Her approach emphasizes the importance of creating a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere where team members feel valued and connected. Whether through simple conversations, shared laughter, or consistent support, nurturing these relationships can significantly enhance team morale, leading to a more relaxed and cohesive group dynamic that ultimately boosts overall performance.
Although to some she flies under the radar, Praytor is an essential part to the team and an example of how to be involved in a sport that you love.
