Yes, I’m one of those guys! No, I don’t wear a carved out watermelon on my head on game day, but yes, I’m one of those guys: a Saskatchewan Roughriders fan. Our American friends may not even know what I’m talking about at this point, so let me explain. The Roughriders are a professional football team in the Canadian Football League (CFL). And it just so happens that at the time of writing, this team is 8 and 1 (8 wins and 1 loss). An impressive record for any team, but especially in a league where the regular season is only 18 games long. 

So, how have the Riders done it?  What can we learn about leadership from the Green and White?

The first thing I’ve noticed about the 2013 Riders is their humble leadership. The General Manager and coach are both relatively young, but are humble and hardworking. They’re obviously dedicated to their roles and team. Surely this provides a solid foundation for a winning team. This reminds me of the importance of leadership in the church. So much depends on godly, humble leadership! Leaders that love the Lord and His people and who build relationships with people and really lead the way. 

Seems to me that the players have noticed this solid, humble leadership, and they’ve followed suit. They’ve become leaders too!  And I think, mostly humble leaders. There seems to be a good team-spirit on the Riders this year. Players helping each other out. Taking one for the team. Giving credit to the team for the win. Thinking of others beyond themselves. I could be wrong on this, but that’s what I’ve picked up from my reading and listening. Another lesson for the church! We are a family (a sort of team). So, do we act as a family (a team), or do we do our own thing? Naturally, we will be a stronger family (a better team) when we work together; when we have a shared mission.

One final observation: the Riders have dedicated fans. Arguably the most dedicated fans in the league! Now, sometimes I think these fans are a bit extreme (i.e., watermelon helmets!), but nevertheless, they’re committed. They want to see their team win. So too in the church, leaders flourish when they have dedicated followers. This doesn’t mean, of course, that leaders are allowed to do whatever they want. We all need to be held accountable. But leaders lead well when they are empowered to lead! 

So, just a few thoughts on leadership—inspired by the Green and White. Go Riders!