I'm all for giving our texting teens thumbs a rest and replacing those cellphones as often as possible with a good book that will get them thinking, especially when we can get them thinking about stuff that matters. Coach Mike Zandri's suggestion for our young bantam hockey players to add the book, "My Personal Best" to their reading list is an excellent recommendation. It's a good read, not very weighty and chalk full of good lessons for any young athlete (and coach).The book shares the journey of legendary baseketball coach John Wooden, detailing his triumphs and struggles. What he learned along the way will no doubt inspire your teen and perhaps your whole team. John Wooden is a man who got it right on and off the court.
Our copy of the book is filled with highlights and dog ears where I know we'll want to keep going back to look again at his earned wisdom and pyramid defining success. While there are too many to list, here are a few of our favorite takeaways;
" No player is bigger or better than the team."
"If you do enough small things right, big things can happen."
" Goals achieved with little effort are seldom worthwhile or long lasting."
"Be more interested in finding the best way, not just in having it your way."
" Motivation must come from the belief that ultimate success lies in giving your personal best."
John Wooden celebrated his 99th birthday this month. Happy birthday coach.
Check out John Wooden's website here.
