[EricH]

I'm going to take a while here, so bear with me.

I'm going to omit the mentor question for the time being; it's already been asked. I'll just let Alan's answer stand there.

Leading the team is a large responsibility, as you've found out. From the sound of it, you're the most experienced, so you got the job. I'm probably going to be in a similar situation next year myself, but I digress...

Phase 1: Look to the future. You won't be around forever, and so you need to train up future team leaders. Start now by looking at the first-year students. Are any of them taking initiative? How about asking those students to help you? By including them in the process of decision making, you help them learn what to do. I know in my Scout troop, we once had the senior patrol leader choose his assistant. After a while, we made a slight change to reflect real life: the SPL was the previous assistant SPL, and the assistants were elected. This allowed for training without the pressure. I would start choosing students to help you now, so that they can learn more by the end of the season.

Why was that the first part? Because the effects of that type of policy will be felt for years, and if it is done right, the team's knowledge will improve, and the leaders won't be in your situation.

Phase 2: Look to the past. What worked last year for the leaders? Can you adapt that? This can give you guidance for what to do in a given situation. Looking at the question of "What would X do here?" can really help you. (X is your preferred role model/mentor.)

Phase 3: Look to the present. Now, you are the leader. You aren't sure of yourself. Can you find an adviser or mentor? (Akash, don't answer that for him... I know what you'll say.) If not, you'll have to wing it. It's not terribly hard, but you have to think carefully.

It has been said that every person needs to choose two people carefully: One to mentor and one to be mentored by. Do this, and the team won't be in this type of situation later without working at it.

Also, we on CD are here to help you. Don't be afraid to ask.