Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.
As captain of the James Logan tennis team, I seek to encourage, inspire, and maintain a positive environment. I love the tennis community because although we play individually, it is fundamentally a team sport. Through bonding activities and fun tennis drills, I built a close-knit tennis community.
However, sometimes disputes arise. In those instances, I strive to bring back unity. For example, two teammates played a game to decide their position on the team, when Tina started cheating. The other teammate became enraged. As captain, I first attempted to understand the situation fully. Once it became clear to me that Tina was playing unfairly, I told her that we are all teammates and should always be honest, because morality is far more important than a tennis game. We have not had any disputes since then because I constantly promote a culture of honesty; my guidance has inspired the team to play fairly.
I display the importance of morality and sportsmanship to my team through not only my words, but my actions. After a match against our rival school, the opposing coach approached me and commended my sportsmanship and honesty. He told me that opponents from other schools were dishonest about line calls, and I was one of the few who remained fair. Though I was happy to win such a large match, the judgment of my character provided a much deeper joy.
My team may have lost several matches during the season, but I think that it is okay to lose, as long as you try your best and stay honest. Through constant encouragement, I show that I believe in every single one of my teammates. As a result, they start to believe in themselves equally.
Even when I am having a tough day on the court, I strive to maintain a positive attitude and good example. Through pep talks during games, I ensure that the team is optimistic. I promote hard work so players do not have to resort to shortcuts. I hope my words are something they heed not just now, but for the rest of their lives.