4 lessons on teamwork from the greatest football movie ever made

We’re coming up on the 30th anniversary of the movie Little Giants (I suddenly feel really old). This classic family sports comedy is super ridiculous (and honestly it’s not the greatest football movie ever, that’s Remember the Titans) but it can teach us a few valuable lessons about teamwork…

Inclusion: Despite their differences in size (mostly small), skill (mostly none), and experience (absolutely none), the team learns to work together and includes anyone who wants to play. You can probably learn a thing or two if you include more people in conversations every day.

Support: Throughout the film, the team supports each other and learns that teamwork involves lifting each other up and being encouraging—even when their opponent looks unbeatable. How often are you supporting your teammates?

Strengths: Each member of the team has unique skills and talents (maybe not exactly football related skills). By recognizing and using these strengths, the Giants are able to come together and find success. This emphasizes the importance of finding value in the abilities of every team member. Someone can’t do everything, but everyone can do something.

Leadership: This cinematic classic also demonstrates the importance of leadership when building a team. Coach Kevin O’Shea and his brother Danny O’Shea are far different types of leaders, with Kevin favoring the best athletes and Danny focusing on building a team based on being inclusive, learning the game, and having fun. Ultimately, it’s Danny’s approach that leads to the (SPOILER ALERT) big win, highlighting the importance of teamwork and coming together.

Overall, Little Giants teaches that teamwork is about including and supporting each other, utilizing everyone’s strengths, and good leadership, all of which are valuable lessons at your credit union or in life.