[Siri]

Noel, great advice. I'd like to add videotaping to #1 if your team can. This can be a huge help, certainly to (especially newish) coaches but also for diagnosing mechanical or programming issues. Nice if the videographer is a coach or at least a strategically-minded pit crew.

As for #2-3, definitely. Also realize your drivers (especially if they're new) will likely also be nervous and guilty if they screw up. Get them relaxed/happy. This helps you too--fake it 'til you make it. If #5 does happen, you're the buffer for your drivers.