At KCIC, we pride ourselves on being experts in managing product liabilities. But this past year, we discovered another hidden talent: dominating the local kickball league. Not only did our team bring home the championship trophy, but the lessons we learned on the field have had a direct and positive impact in the workplace.

A tradition started by our social team lead, Nancy Gutzler, as a fun way to connect outside the office quickly became a prime example of how teamwork, teaching, and trust can drive success—not just on the field, but also in our day-to-day work at KCIC.

Learning Together: From Kickball Novices to Champions

When we formed our 2024 KCIC kickball team, not everyone was a seasoned player. Some teammates admitted they hadn’t played kickball since elementary school or even at all. But rather than let that hold us back, we leaned on each other’s strengths. Those with more experience stepped up to teach others the fundamentals—how to bunt strategically, when to run, and even the best ways to catch a screaming line drive.

The patience and encouragement we showed on the field mirrored how we approach learning in the workplace. At KCIC, our claims administration work is complex, and new team members often need time to master the processes and tools we use. Just like in kickball, more experienced colleagues take the time to teach and mentor, ensuring everyone feels confident and supported as they learn new skills.

This collaborative approach to growth not only helped us win games but also fosters a workplace culture where knowledge-sharing is second nature, and no one is afraid to ask for help.

Communication and Trust: The Foundation of Team Success

In kickball, you can’t win without clear communication. Whether it’s shouting, “I’ve got it!” to claim a fly ball, or coordinating a clever play to get the other team out, being in sync is essential. On the field, we built trust by supporting one another and making sure everyone felt included, regardless of their skill level.

That same trust and communication translate directly to our consulting work. At KCIC, projects require a seamless collaboration among employees of all teams. Processing complaints, managing claimant data, and finalizing complex reports simply cannot be completed efficiently by one person. By practicing open communication and building strong relationships during kickball, we’ve strengthened our ability to work together effectively in the office.

Resilience Under Pressure

Winning the championship wasn’t a walk in the park. We faced tough opponents, unpredictable plays, and moments where it seemed like the odds weren’t in our favor. But we didn’t give up. Instead, we adapted, encouraged one another, and stayed focused.

This resilience is a cornerstone of KCIC’s approach in finding a way to provide client value for complicated tasks. Challenges are inevitable, but our team knows how to stay calm under pressure and find creative solutions. Whether it’s a high-stakes project deadline or a tricky kickball play, we’ve proven that we can thrive even in tough situations.

Celebrating Wins, Big and Small

Of course, no championship story is complete without some well-earned celebrations. After every game, win or lose, the KCIC team made it a point to gather for happy hour. These post-game hangouts weren’t just about unwinding—they were a chance to bond, reflect, and appreciate the effort we put in as a team.

In the workplace, we carry this spirit of celebration with us. Whether it’s recognizing individual accomplishments or team milestones, we understand the importance of taking time to acknowledge our successes. These moments of connection make our team stronger and remind us why we love working together.

From the Field to the Office

The success of our kickball team is a testament to what happens when people come together with trust, resilience, a willingness to learn. As consultants, we know the importance of teamwork and collaboration—but our time on the field has deepened those values in a way no training seminar ever could.

As we prepare to defend our title this upcoming season, we’re excited to bring even more of what we’ve learned back to the office. And, of course, the happy hour celebrations don’t hurt either!