Success in sports often mirrors success in life. The values formed on the field—teamwork, discipline, resilience, and leadership—extend far beyond the final whistle. Lacrosse, in particular, offers a unique blend of fast-paced action and strategic depth that prepares athletes for challenges outside athletics. As Roger Chivukula knows, these experiences don’t just shape strong players—they form adaptable professionals, thoughtful leaders, and reliable teammates.
Whether it’s the structure built through daily practice or the lessons drawn from tough losses, the field becomes a proving ground for habits that fuel growth in any arena. The habits formed under pressure—communicating clearly, adapting quickly, and staying consistent—build a foundation that carries into careers and relationships.
Lessons from the Lacrosse Field
Lacrosse is more than a competitive sport—it demands coordination, speed, and strategic thinking. Each player must stay mentally sharp and physically prepared, knowing that the game can shift in seconds. This blend of focus and readiness builds habits that carry over into professional settings. It teaches athletes to anticipate, stay alert, and respond with intention.
The structure and discipline required in lacrosse mirror the demands of a well-functioning business atmosphere. Just as athletes train consistently to improve performance, professionals benefit from steady effort and attention to detail. Being part of a team that values individual responsibility and group success can shape how people approach challenges in the workplace.
Teamwork and Communication in Action
Success in lacrosse hinges on players moving as one unit, anticipating each other’s decisions, and reacting in real time. That kind of fluid coordination doesn’t happen by chance—it’s built through trust, clear communication, and shared goals. In business, the same principles apply when teams are aligned and engaged. The ability to read a situation and respond instinctively can be a game-changer in both.
A well-timed pass on the field can be the difference between scoring and missing an opportunity. Similarly, in the workplace, timely updates and honest feedback can shape the outcome of a project. When everyone understands their role and communicates openly, progress becomes a collective effort rather than an individual push. That sense of shared responsibility fuels momentum and helps avoid costly missteps.
Leading by Example
In lacrosse, leadership isn’t limited to the captain. Players who hustle back on defense, encourage teammates, or stay composed in tough moments often influence the team more than words ever could. That kind of leadership—built on actions—translates directly to the business world. It’s often the players who lead by example that inspire the greatest loyalty and effort from their team.
A manager who steps in during crunch time, listens more than they speak, and takes responsibility when things go wrong quickly earns respect. True leadership, whether on the field or in the office, is less about authority and more about impact. Employees and teammates are more likely to follow someone who shows up consistently and leads with integrity.
Consistency and Discipline
Behind every great athlete is a routine—early mornings, repeated drills, and a mindset that embraces the grind. Lacrosse players don’t become sharp overnight. It’s the repetition, the commitment to small improvements, that sets them apart. The same holds true in business. Day after day, showing up with purpose builds trust and results. Over time, this consistency becomes an advantage.
Resilience and Adaptability Under Pressure
Games rarely go exactly as planned. A player might get injured, the weather might change, or the opponent may be surprised by a new strategy. In those moments, the ability to adapt quickly becomes indispensable. Business is no different—markets shift, setbacks occur, and things rarely unfold exactly as expected. Those who can pivot without losing focus often rise above the chaos.
Staying calm when pressure builds is a skill developed through experience. Whether it’s navigating a product failure or pivoting during a client presentation, those who remain composed and flexible often lead the way forward. Adversity becomes an opportunity rather than a roadblock, and the ability to shift gears can define future success. It’s not just about reacting, but about adapting with confidence.
Growing from Wins and Losses
Every match ends in either triumph or defeat, but both offer insight. Athletes review their performances, not just to celebrate or regret, but to learn. That reflective habit builds resilience and long-term growth. In business, embracing this mindset can make the difference between stagnation and evolution. Learning never stops, especially when success might hide areas for improvement.
Wins can spark momentum, but they shouldn’t lead to complacency. Likewise, failures—while uncomfortable—often reveal blind spots and spark innovation. The key lies in viewing every outcome as a stepping stone rather than a finish line. Growth comes not just from the scoreboard but from the willingness to evaluate, adjust, and move forward with clarity and purpose.
