Spring Maintenance

For a while now, I have used Spring Break as a time to not only relax and recharge...but also as a time to self-reflect and self=evaluate. Many a times, we as coaches will ensure that we evaluate our players but fail to effectively evaluate ourselves.

I'm a tough coach to play for. I know that. It's intentional. To be clear...when I say "tough," that doesn't mean that I yell at and berate my players. [Don't get it twisted...I definitely raise my voice when necessary.] When I say "tough" I mean that I teach my guys that the STANDARD is the STANDARD. Players that play for me will have to meet the standard to continue to play for me. Again...it's intentional.

A huge part of my self-evaluation is to remind myself what the STANDARD is... and what it isn't.
What the STANDARD IS...

• Players will strive for academic success and attempt to exceed their potential
• Players will become better citizens within and outside of their community
• Players will transform into leaders of their own flock

What the STANDARD IS NOT...

• Players must gather a certain amount of offers
• Players must win a specific accolade
• Players must attain a certain level

One of my favorite stories success has absolutely nothing to do with a basketball game. I love to talk about my players that were initially failing multiple classes. But, by the end of their high school careers were passing 100% of them...AND... helping other students to pass theirs. Their conversations to the younger crowd..."Don't do what I did." The gravity of that statement from a player that had failed at something, to attempt to prevent the next player from failing at that same thing is insurmountable. That's a story of overcoming.

Let's keep it real coaches...what is the GOAL? If the answer to that is to win ball games, then you've definitely missed the mark. The goal is to create LEADERS. Understand, that leadership comes in different shapes and forms. While we could be cultivating the next president of a country or company, we are most of all cultivating the next father and husband. As minor as it sounds, the goal begins on the micro level.

For clarity, I am a VERY...and I mean VERY competitive coach. When that ball tips, I'm trying to send you home with an L. But during those times of self-reflection I try to remind myself of the STANDARD. As coaches, we have to readjust our thinking. What "W" is most important? It's important that we adjust to the STANDARD.

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