[kspann]

I firmly beleive that each and every situation will prepare you for the next game. Defend your partner to the death to the coaches, no matter what he/she has called. It is your responsiblity to protect your partner, even when you don't agree. Sell each and every call, even when it wasn't yours. Telling a coach that your partner made a good call, or saying the coach is at a different angle and had a bad look will take some of the heat off your partner. This may put the heat on you, but it will strenghthen the crew.

In dealing with your partner, use the old criticism sandwich. Tell your partner what he/she did well and/or right, mention what could be worked on, then another positive comment. People in general tend to take this better than negative comments.

Hope this helps!