An international perspective on team environments

Feeling this deeper connection to a team has encouraged Celeste to not only do track and field next year, but also participate in cross country. Likewise, Celeste’s brother, freshman William Guidotti, has also noted the different team environments between their two homes.

“In Italy there were less people, and I felt less motivated because people didn’t really understand the meaning of being there [on the team],” William said.

Despite a lack of encouragement, William also did swimming and track and field, as well as soccer back in Bologna. When they moved here a year ago, William came willing to try new things and get more involved in the high school.

“I came with an open mindset, so I didn’t have many problems,” William said.

Now, William’s experiences has prompted him to think about his future in athletics. Beyond doing sports for the rest of high school, William also plans on running in college. But the perks of sports haven’t just been the activity itself, but also his fellow teammates that have contributed to his positive experience.

“I like the people I run with,” William said. “The good thing about this is talking with the people and joking with the teammates.”

By keeping an open mind and interacting with their new teammates, the siblings have perceived a positive team behavior at Carlsbad. Even if joining the track and field team made the transition to a new country easier, the Guidottis have definitely adjusted to major differences, especially athletically. 

“It’s very new here,” Celeste said. “It’s a different world.”