Head Women’s Basketball Coach Sue Ramsey emphasized the benefits of trust and teamwork during a recent presentation to students on Wednesday, April 18 in the Ridenour Room.

Titled “Trust … A Foundation for Success,” Ramsey’s speech focused on how individuals can form relationships based on trust with others.

To illustrate her points, Ramsey provided examples of her experiences as a coach over the years. She explained that trust can play a pivotal role in the ability of a team to achieve its goals. For instance, the combination of trust as well as teamwork allowed the women’s team to achieve a 33-2 record and a runner-up finish in the Division II national title game this season.

Ramsey began her presentation by first outlining the philosophy of the women’s basketball team. These main concepts were represented on a poster board display. In essence, the team strives to show consideration towards others, keep lines of communication open, demonstrate a strong work ethic and integrity and maintain overall high moral principles. Ramsey also noted the importance of dedication in accomplishing the objectives of the team.

“Everything starts with commitment,” Ramsey said. “We commit to the foundations of integrity and trust.”

Ramsey stressed that living by these ideals can have a beneficial effect on the team.

“How we act off the court determines how we act on the court,” Ramsey said.

After describing the team’s philosophy, Ramsey discussed more specifically the components necessary for a relationship centered on trust. Trusting relationships feature openness and honesty and provide people with a sense of security. These types of relationships can increase the effectiveness of the team and make it easier to work together.

With this definition of trust established, the remaining portion of the speech revolved around steps that individuals could take to cultivate trust in their lives.

Ramsey first suggested that people should be open when communicating with others. Next, she indicated that appreciating people’s ideas and treating them with compassion helps to develop positive relationships as well.

The third step for enhancing trust includes conveying one’s true personality and showing honesty and sincerity. Another dimension of trust entails being dedicated and following through with intentions.

The last method of creating trust is practicing active listening skills. Rather than making assumptions, individuals should carefully listen while others are talking and put themselves in the other person’s perspective.

Ramsey concluded her presentation by reminding the audience to cherish the happy moments in life and “celebrate” the good times.