The Australian swimming team is starting to feel like just that again - a team.
A year after a poor London Olympic campaign was blamed on a "toxic" culture within the squad, Australia's swimmers have noted a marked turnaround in their camp at the world championships in Barcelona.
The improved unity has resulted in swimmers feeling stronger support before, during and after races - win or lose.
Sprint spearhead James Magnussen felt the difference after a disappointing swim as Australia's men's 4x100m freestyle relay team missed a medal in Barcelona, as it did in London.
"Last year after the relay, it felt like I caught the plague," Magnussen said.
"No-one wanted to talk to me. Me and (my coach) pretty much went it alone.
"But this year as soon as that race was over the team gave me a pat on the back and said `move on'.
"It's just such good camaraderie and team morale that it's making the week go a lot quicker than it did last year."
Magnussen was one of the swimmers caught up in the Stilnox scandal in London and was accused of not being a team player.
But women's star Alicia Coutts revealed this week Magnussen had been a source of support and encouragement after her opening-night relay disappointment.
"I feel like I've had a little bit of experience over the last year so maybe I'm in a position now where I can help other people out," Magnussen said.
"I'm just starting to feel a little bit more wise and in a position to do that."
The team's turnaround has been reflected strongly in the stands at Palau San Jordi this week.
After a lack of support for fellow swimmers was noted in the London fallout, the swimmers' leadership team developed a roster to ensure strong support for teammates at every session in Barcelona.
A healthy and vocal contingent has been present over the opening three days and, crucially, it seems they're not there simply because they have to be.
"I think people just want to be there," said Emily Seebohm after winning a silver medal in the 100m backstroke on Tuesday.
"Everyone is getting along with each other and there is no fighting, there's no drama.
"It's just a nice team to be a part of.
"I went up in the stands just after I raced and there were so many people up there just loving every minute of watching Aussies race and it's great to see."
Under the new leadership of high performance director Michael Scott and head coaches Michael Bohl and Rohan Taylor, a strong focus was placed on social interaction before and during the Barcelona campaign.
Mobile phone use is banned in a team room at the hotel while planned activities including trivia and games nights have helped bring the team together.
Australia has made a strong start in the pool with five medals - one gold and four silver - in three days matching half of their London output.
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