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Excerpts from They Call Me Coach, John Wooden
“There may seem to be double standards at times as I most certainly will not treat you all alike in every respect. However, I will attempt to give each individual the treatment he ears and deserves according to my judgment, in keeping with what I consider in the best interest of the team. You must accept this in the proper manner for you to be appositive and contributing member…” There is no replacement for sound fundamentals and strict discipline. They will reinforce you in the toughest circumstance. The importance of little things cannot be overemphasized-like double-tying the shoestrings; seeing that uniforms and shoes are properly fitted; and forming the habit, based on the assumption that every shot will be missed, of getting your hands above your shoulders when a shot is taken so you can come down with the rebound. Young people need models, not critics. Talent is God-given, be humble; fame is man-give, be thankful; conceit is self-given, be careful. No matter how you total success in the coaching profession it all comes down to a single factor-talent. There may be a hundred great coaches of whom you never have heard in basketball, football, or any sport who will probably never receive the acclaim they deserve simply because they have not been blessed with the talent. Although not every coach can win consistently with talent, no coach can win without it. |
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