Teams 2010?

[dsnyfan21]

hmmm,

I have no problems with the each team coming up with what they want to do.
Just remember that it is great to want to start all this new stuff, captains starting weekly threads/monthly threads/questions of the month/mixers. But as we find the steam can run out quickly.

I am going to find out what my team wants to do in terms of miles/minutes and anything else.

I have no problem doing another Virtual Turkey Trot 10k and was thinking of doing a WISH 5K the Friday before the Half and Full in January, for those wanting to do something we didn't have to pay 45 dollars to do. That is still in the thinking mode.

I think the teams just need to be kept at a good number so they don't get too big and captains can keep track of members and then let Debra know when they get too full or when the numbers are down and need more members.

Our team was more about support in training and a bit of life issues and triumphs mixed in.

-Just my two cents,

Tracy

 

[IMGONNABE40!]

I have not been part of a team. I have come to WISH and posted on event threads...the 2009 Princess thread and the 2010 Goofy thread. I enjoyed being a part of those threads...but somehow remained oblivious to this whole team thing... I thought I was a member of WISH, but maybe not because I was not a member of a team? Hope it was okay that I grabbed a twizzler @ DHS!!

Don't know if I will be doing a Disney event anytime soon, but I would love to be able to come here and have a place to report and get/give support on training.

No imput on miles/minutes or challenges...

 

[chimera]

Apologies to Ohana where I've cross-posted this...

I've been around here a loooong time, back in 2005 when there were 20 or 30 of us on a weekly thread, most of whom had no idea WTH we were doing with this racing stuff. We held each other's hands and learned the ropes with the guidance of a couple, more experienced members and bonded due to the shared experience of doing something completely insane that most of us never believed we could do. You still see that with the new folks who join and are sooo excited with just the idea of what they're trying to do.

I worked from home at the time as a medical writer so was literally online all day and could easily post the weekly threads and try to keep the conversation going. I remember trying to think of a new question to post whenever conversation died down...since it was all new, it was fairly easy. We talked about socks, shoes, chafing, jog bras, tech clothes, training plans, etc, etc, etc...

I have to say, I am soooo proud and amazed at what WISH has become. Each and every one of you has contributed to the phenomenon that is WISH. The growing pains that force these conversations are a good thing but make it much harder to keep up than the 'old days'. What I don't ever want WISH to lose is the all-inclusive, supportive atmosphere for which we are known. I've had a lot of ideas on directions we could take as a team, but LTO/WTO over the past year, so haven't been able to act on much lately.

I'm in favor of the BOT model, keep it simple and social. Keep the existing teams together that want to stay together and let other folks join them or make up their own new teams. The miles/minutes portion is over for me. I keep track of my own numbers and you're all welcome to see them on runningahead.com, but transferring them to another spreadsheet is tiresome. I really don't believe there 'needs' to be a captain so to speak, but if someone wants to be a captain to lead discussions or post whatever, I have no problem with it.

Loved the virtual race idea...keep 'em comin',maybe with holiday themes as before. Ideally, the monthly thread could be for folks not on teams or looking for teams who still would like some group support.

Christine...all you have to do to be a WISH member is post here. Doesn't mean that if you're not on one of the smaller teams, that you're any less a member of WISH.

My $2.75 worth.

 

[jmasgat]

Mel Thaks for your input--you have a perspective that many of us newer folks don't have. And for the benefit of the newer folks, you may want to explain...

I'm in favor of the BOT model, keep it simple and social.

I know that until I asked (last week), I had no clue what "BOTS" were--and I've been hanging around for 2 years! (Didn't feel comfortable asking them--and don't want to make even newer folks uncomfortable trying to figure it out)

Debra I will volunteer to coordinate new team members. Since new WISH'ers are familiar with team, I would propose assigning them randomly and with an eye for keeping team numbers even

Maura

 

[marathonmommy]

Mel Thaks for your input--you have a perspective that many of us newer folks don't have. And for the benefit of the newer folks, you may want to explain...



I know that until I asked (last week), I had no clue what "BOTS" were--and I've been hanging around for 2 years! (Didn't feel comfortable asking them--and don't want to make even newer folks uncomfortable trying to figure it out)

Maura

So, what is BOT?
Also, how do we go about getting on a team? Do we get placed or just join one? I wouldn't know how to go about choosing one or even what the choices are. Do I just pick one with the team name I like best? LOL!

 

[Sandy321]

Mel I do admire what you help created - the spirit of WISH, I think WISH event/comp is unlike any other forum here at DIS - and part of it is the loyalty and respect to the spirit of WISH, the "mission like statement" - how fiercely so many post to protect that idea -

I do hope that idea can be present on page one of the team threads, as well as the weekly threads (TigerLilly's statement is often quoted esp for the now monthly thread) a way to make it "inclusive" so when newbies start reading - they realize, just by posting, just by wanting to be included... YOU ARE! That is so encouraging... "WISH gave me the Courage to start"

That's a BIG deal!!

BOTS ok I googled... "Build Operate Transfer" hmmm dont think that's what they were talking about.... but maybe something... AHA! http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2371770
which gave link to the "old thread" to the old thread to the Philadelphia Marathon '08 thread
http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1449562&page=250

so is the "BOT" model basically modeled after the "weekly" thread? a group of WISHers with a goal (Philadelphia Marathon) that post and remain together, encouraging each other... posting... meeting up... ?

 

[Kira G.]

My point of view (for what it's worth):

While have been on a great team for almost 2 years now, and I hung out there from time to time, I know I missed the general conversation with everyone on the weekly/monthly thread. If I had a specific training question or concern, or something I wanted to share, I tended not to post on my team thread. I would either post it on the monthly thread, or (more likely, as the traffic on that thread died off) start a new thread with my question in it. That way, I knew that everyone would have a chance to look it, and I would get input from a lot of different perspectives.

So while I am happy to keep being part of the Triple D's, I also think it would be helpful to keep brainstorming about ways to connect everyone who participates here. That way, we can discover people who share our interests who may or may not be part of our particular team, and keep the whole group alive as a team.

I like the idea of have a "mixer" with a specific topic, but agree that it should be on the general WiSH thread rather than a team thread. And more virtual races gets my total - I thought that was great (and I love my turkey medal!). If we organized something with a bit more lead time, we could get into topics of training, goals, location, etc.

I know it can be overwhelming for new people here - but actually I think we do a great job of keeping it very friendly! Compared with other threads on the Disboards, or other boards I have looked at, we haven't become a group that mostly seems to connect because of shared inside jokes or gossip that no one can ever hope to catch up on! And I love how this particular discussion is a model of how we can have different points of view, but maintain a civil conversation.

Whatever happens, and however this evolves, I am a WiSHer for life!

 

[mandac]

For what it is worth - I was really excited to find WISH after the DL half last year. I was so amazed with the group. I was in the back of the pack, running at about 3 hours. There were several WISH shirts around me. As we neared the finish, there were members of the group that had probably finished hours earlier walking their WISH teammates into the finish. They didn't leave them behind because they were slow. They were there to cheer and pull them through to the end. That is what I new I needed and wanted!

When I finally found the WISH board and started posting I asked to be put on a team and Debra assigned me to the Rebels. The thread was always kind of slow, so I would also post on the monthly thread. It was a little harder to keep up, and everyone seems pretty advanced in their knowledge of running, but they welcomed me with open arms and I received encouragement and advice from that thread also.

Maybe it is because my team thread never really took off this year, but I feel like I am on the WISH team, and not the Rebels.

So what do I think we should do? It sounds like the people on certain teams really want to keep their teams together. Great. Keep the monthly thread open for everyone. I know some people have posted the same comments on several boards, but that has been nice for those of us that don't check everything.

If we do virtual races I don't think they should be by team. I had so much fun doing the Turkey trot! Those should just be open to everyone. So much fun.

Maybe there could be threads based on experience level. I was posting to a C25K thread when I was doing that, and it was great to have other newbies to talk to. I love the experienced advice, but sometimes it is nice to talk to someone who is going through what I am going through at the same time!

Either way - I love WISH. I just WISH I had found you all earlier. I plan on being here for a long, long time.

 

[disney_mommy]

Does there even have to be a weekly/monthly thread on the main board for WISHers? Can we just post questions/comments/conversations on the main board as we feel like it? That way everyone can see and join in, and it doesn't have to be contained in just one thread. Just an idea.

 

[wtpclc]

Mel has said it wonderfully from teh point of a fellow 2005 WISHer.

I love my team, but there is something special about having 1 central place (monthly thread) to come for answers.

As for teams, I would be all for not tracking miles and making it a competition. As a former captain, that got so hard. It may start easy, but stuff happens during the year adn even though you love your team and want to do it, it becomes a chore. JMO and this may only be relevant on teh Warriors thread if teams are to decide individually.

My vision of teams is a smaller, less intimidating place to post wher you know everyone and a place to keep us accountable. Maybe a way to ease into WISH.

Huge thanks to all who have worked to keep the teams going!!!!

 

[TnTsParty]

I like Disney Mommy's thought about why we can't just post our comments/questions etc on the main board - that way if someone else has the question they may miss it if its in a weekly/monthly etc thread. I think its still a good idea to have threads specific to the different races etc. and even the team threads should continue - I am just sayin those running/walking questions that can beneft the whole team can be posted as its own thread maybe.

Just wanted to let everyone know I proposed the idea of a Virtual Valentine's Day race so go to that thread and let me know if you are interested and any other ideas you might have.

 

[deekaypee]

I like the idea of more virtual races as a team. That was fun.

Thank you, Tricia, for beginning to field questions about a Valentine's Day virtual race. Are you doing this yourself--or is this something "sponsored" by your team? Just curious.

I have no problem doing another Virtual Turkey Trot 10k and was thinking of doing a WISH 5K the Friday before the Half and Full in January, for those wanting to do something we didn't have to pay 45 dollars to do. That is still in the thinking mode.

I think the teams just need to be kept at a good number so they don't get too big and captains can keep track of members and then let Debra know when they get too full or when the numbers are down and need more members.

Tracy

Ditto on the Turkey Trok 10K/WISH 5K. Is this something that the Warriors are doing, or is it "all you" (and Ms. Duckie, etc.)?

Also, what would be a good, manageable number for teams who decide to participate in team, Tracy?

For those who don't know, Tracy is the captain of the Warriors, but the other things she volunteers for--the hats/visor orders, the nametags, tallying the challenge numbers--are unrelated to the captaining role. She's one of those WISHers who's taken on multiple responsibilities. Like I said in my "thank a WISHer" thread, the magic doesn't just happen.

Oh, and don't be volunteering me for the roster this year, girl. Nope, nope, nope.

So obviously I like the team thing. Seems to me it's essential in a big group. And having planned gatherings (threads/events) to keep the entire WISH group connected is a great idea.

.....

The idea of a central just for fun/question of the week (or month) thread sounds like a great idea to bring all WISHers together. I like the idea of it being a separate thread not within any one team...so that even those who are not on any team at all are included.

Welcome, Liz! Glad you're here. Just a couple of questions/points. The planned gatherings--are you referring to the WISH races/meets specifically, or those that emerge for all races. I only ask because it appears to me we're getting more and more threads that pop up for regional, non-Disney races--and I think that's a good thing.

As a point of information for all who don't know: the "mixers" and "ice cream socials" that were put on. Last year, a couple of the teams held these within their threads but invited all WISHers to participate. 'Ohana was one of those teams, and we posted the questions not only to all teams, but many threads--the weekly thread, the special-interest threads, and the race threads. (Not the threads started to answer a specific question.)

I'll be the first to admit the number of posts could get unwieldy when placed within a team thread, so having a question of the week might be best placed in their own thread. If the teams were to do something like this, though, it might be best if the commitment came from more than a couple of teams/people.

I'm giving my opinions as an individual:

Ditch the miles/minutes.

Have each team do their own challenges.

Have the team "captains" create WISH-wide challenges.

Let one person keep track of team players only. Have everyone who wants to stay on their team do that. Everyone else can let the tracker know and that person can assign someone to a team. The goal can be to keep the teams to a manageable level, starting new teams as necessary.

Have the team "captains" start the virtual races.

Have the team "captains" start monthly WISH-wide threads for those that want to talk to members of other teams. Also have them discuss and organize meets at events.

Each team can elect a "captain," or the members of a team can rotate as "captains."

My, that's a lot of work for the captains. Seriously, though, many of these duties reflect how the team challenge already operate, with the exception of team-specific challenges, monthly threads and virtual races (those were really the initiatives of people who were--coincidentally--captains). What I worry about is placing more and more "team" responsibility on the same handful of WISHers. That's asking for an accelerated burnout rate, IMO.

I am not a big fan of the teams but if you are not in one, there isn't much action around here. I volunteered to be a captain for the new team a year ago because I did feel left out when I wasn't on one.
.....
Is everyone posting their race reports on the team threads because I have not seen one yet?

Scott, I feel horrible about the Rebels. Your concerns, like others posted earlier, are on my mind throughout this. And now that you bring up the race-report thread, I'm curious, too. I know many 'Ohana members posted their RR on our thread. Is that the case with other teams?
(I didn't post one, as I'm wordy enough on other days.)

I have not been part of a team. I have come to WISH and posted on event threads...the 2009 Princess thread and the 2010 Goofy thread. I enjoyed being a part of those threads...but somehow remained oblivious to this whole team thing... I thought I was a member of WISH, but maybe not because I was not a member of a team? Hope it was okay that I grabbed a twizzler @ DHS!!

You're a WISHer just for posting. And we want to make sure that everyone feels that way, regardless of being a member of a team.

I know that until I asked (last week), I had no clue what "BOTS" were--and I've been hanging around for 2 years! (Didn't feel comfortable asking them--and don't want to make even newer folks uncomfortable trying to figure it out)
Maura

BOTs is the nickname for a group of WISHers who were all doing the same non-Disney race, met up, formed social bonds, and are now virtual and real-life friends. They have a thread here. It's not exclusive, anyone can pop in and join the conversation. Or harass them, as I do.


And the most important post as far as I'm concerned!

Debra I will volunteer to coordinate new team members. Since new WISH'ers are familiar with team, I would propose assigning them randomly and with an eye for keeping team numbers even

Maura

SOLD! Maura is the new keeper of the roster for teams that decide to continue! You will be rewarded for your good works--maybe not in this lifetime, but someday. Unless you count that drink I'll buy you the next time I see you.

 

[deekaypee]

Maybe it is because my team thread never really took off this year, but I feel like I am on the WISH team, and not the Rebels.

So what do I think we should do? It sounds like the people on certain teams really want to keep their teams together. Great. Keep the monthly thread open for everyone. I know some people have posted the same comments on several boards, but that has been nice for those of us that don't check everything.

If we do virtual races I don't think they should be by team. I had so much fun doing the Turkey trot! Those should just be open to everyone. So much fun.

See, your comment about WISH & Rebels causes me pause. I'd like everyone to think of themselves as WISH and then (maybe) teams. I'm not sure that's happening. Then again, maybe that's not what I should be concerned about. If a team fills someone's needs without being a member of WISH....

I agree that the virtual races should be open to everyone. I'm wondering if the teams would like to "host" one, instead of having the responsibility fall on one or two people. Then again, a team could also have virtual races to challenge each other. I don't believe the virtual races will go away, regardless.

Does there even have to be a weekly/monthly thread on the main board for WISHers? Can we just post questions/comments/conversations on the main board as we feel like it? That way everyone can see and join in, and it doesn't have to be contained in just one thread. Just an idea.

I like Disney Mommy's thought about why we can't just post our comments/questions etc on the main board - that way if someone else has the question they may miss it if its in a weekly/monthly etc thread. I think its still a good idea to have threads specific to the different races etc. and even the team threads should continue - I am just sayin those running/walking questions that can beneft the whole team can be posted as its own thread maybe.

See, for me, it's very important that the monthly thread continue (and I'd even like it to have enough activity to be weekly again). First, we have WISHers who do make that their "home." Second, people new to WISH can dive in there, get a feel for the place, and see whether they'd like to stay. Questions are asked there, but sometimes it's just chatty. Sometimes I just browse the monthly thread to see what people or up to, and will hopefully be a stronger presence there this year. Third, I think people will continue to post their questions as their own thread if that's what they want--I don't see the monthly thread competing with that.

Oh, and I don't see the race threads disappearing at all!

 

[Steffwalks]

As Captain and on the behalf of Hakuna Matata our team thinks:

• Teams should be open just like the bots, leaners and phat girls. If you like it, post with us. If you aren't interested in our group, no problem (we are a problem free phi-lo-so-phy!) Newbees should be encouraged to join in ANYWHERE! A facilitator might be helpful there, though.

• Teams can keep score if they choose. We choose not too. It was complicated and cumbersome for captains. We will applaud all measures taken to stay healthy!

• Captains should watch for interesting questions and topics raised within the group setting and post them as a separate thread. Sometimes, it is difficult to ask a question to a wider audience, especially if your new!

• Mixers are fun and should have a separate thread. This shouldn't be limited to a captain responsibility. (captains should be facilitators!)

• Virtual races are fun.

• Team threads should NEVER be considered "off limits" .

• Separate threads about "other" races should be encouraged!

 

[dsnyfan21]

Debra,
The Turkey Trot was not a team specific event. I had a separate thread going and invited anyone who wanted to participate.
I will do it again for Thanksgiving!!! Whoo hoo (duckie may help again?)

I will try to get together a WISH 5K for the Friday before the January Half and Full Marathons. It will be open to anyone who wants to join in. I will work on the details later and come up with ideas.

YAY!! Maura!! congrats!
-Tracy

 

[WDWFAN9]

I will try to get together a WISH 5K for the Friday before the January Half and Full Marathons. It will be open to anyone who wants to join in. I will work on the details later and come up with ideas.

-Tracy

That would be awesome Tracy! After Anne and her DH walked some of the trails over near WL/Fort Wilderness we talked about how nice it would be to have our own 5K, especially if we didn't have to get on a bus at 5AM to get to the start!

 

[Sandy321]

Y'ALL are crazy!!

I'll sign up for the scream team!!

 

[goofyinohio]

Of the buzzies left I believe this list would like to continue on a team of some sort.

WDWFAN9 - Pat (Co-Captain) - Not sure
Duanerice – Duane
syko - Kirsite~Louise
aldisneygrl - Allie

Caseydilla may be interested, but I haven't seen her on here in a little while.

I think with our group being just a few left it may be best to just put everyone on the different teams.

I'm good with being placed wherever and am happy to just post on the main threads and bouncing around from team to team. (Till they tell me to get out)

 

[Sandy321]

As Captain and on the behalf of Hakuna Matata our team thinks:

• Teams should be open just like the bots, leaners and phat girls. If you like it, post with us. If you aren't interested in our group, no problem (we are a problem free phi-lo-so-phy!) Newbees should be encouraged to join in ANYWHERE! A facilitator might be helpful there, though.

• Teams can keep score if they choose. We choose not too. It was complicated and cumbersome for captains. We will applaud all measures taken to stay healthy!

• Captains should watch for interesting questions and topics raised within the group setting and post them as a separate thread. Sometimes, it is difficult to ask a question to a wider audience, especially if your new!

• Mixers are fun and should have a separate thread. This shouldn't be limited to a captain responsibility. (captains should be facilitators!)

• Virtual races are fun.

• Team threads should NEVER be considered "off limits" .

• Separate threads about "other" races should be encouraged!

I hear/read this over and over - I just would like the beginners of "team" threads to post on post #1 something like that tiger lilly posts that is quoted on the once weekly - now monthly thread...

ie I may open up a thread - start at the last page - but hit page 1 - it would be nice if its an "inclusive" thread to state that... if its an exclusive thread, I'd like to know (I tend to "butt" in, even when I dont realize it... )(oh and IF I do realize it, I do try and back out gracefully - a couple of meets this past Marathon weekend I wasnt knowledgeable about, but happened upon them)

 

[deekaypee]

Debra,
The Turkey Trot was not a team specific event. I had a separate thread going and invited anyone who wanted to participate.
I will do it again for Thanksgiving!!! Whoo hoo (duckie may help again?)

I will try to get together a WISH 5K for the Friday before the January Half and Full Marathons. It will be open to anyone who wants to join in. I will work on the details later and come up with ideas.

YAY!! Maura!! congrats!
-Tracy

I was unclear, sorry. I know the Turkey Trot was started by you as an individual last year. What I meant was, are the Warriors going to "host" or "sponsor" the event this year? Of course it would be open to everyone--just like last year.

My reasoning? I was thinking about ways teams might encourage each other, and the virtuals races have been mentioned as something teams can do. Additionally, I worry about individuals like you taking on so much. That said, it's your gig! If you and Ms. Duckie want to do Turkey Trot again, cool. It's an excellent idea.

And like I said to you at the Up & Away 5K, a January, no-fee 5K rocks and I'm up for helping you organize it! I, for one, am not that enamored with the race fee for Disney's official 5K. Or the start time! (Right, Pat?)

And Sandy, you know you want to do the 5K....but I'd be happy to have you cheering us on, too!

Which reminds me...we could also have a VIRTUAL 5K on the Friday of January race weekend for all our WISHers who can't make to Disney. What do you all think?