Tuesday, 16 Jul 2024

Happy Birthday Coach Wooden

Originally published in 2009

I had the privilege of starting my coaching career in the early 1970s, where I had the opportunity to learn from some incredible mentors like Stew McDole, Chris McLaughlin, and Carl McGown at Graceland College (now University). We dedicated ourselves to the sport, working tirelessly through summer camps and intense training sessions. One of the books that had a profound impact on me during those formative years was John Wooden’s “They Call Me Coach.” Wooden’s teachings, including his famous “Pyramid of Success,” shaped my coaching philosophy and continue to influence me to this day.

As Coach Wooden celebrates his 99th birthday on October 14, it’s essential to recognize the immense impact he has had not only on basketball but also on the broader world of sports. Even at the impressive age of 90 and beyond, Coach Wooden continued sharing his wisdom through numerous books, including his latest release, “A Game Plan for Life.” His dedication to teaching and mentoring is awe-inspiring.

If you were to visit my office, you would find a poster of the Pyramid of Success, signed by Coach Wooden himself, proudly displayed. I have also collected over a dozen books authored by him, each offering valuable insights into coaching and parenting. The lessons I’ve learned from Coach Wooden have enriched both my personal and professional life.

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When I think of Coach Wooden, I recall one particular story shared by Marv Dunphy, the 1988 Olympic gold-medal coach. While writing the IMPACT manual for coaches, I reached out to Marv for his input. He summed up his extensive research on Coach Wooden in just two words: “Be consistent.” This statement resonated with me as it perfectly encapsulated Wooden’s unwavering commitment to treating everyone with fairness and respect. It serves as a powerful reminder that as coaches, we must be consistent in our values, teaching, and treatment of our athletes.

For coaches who may not be familiar with Coach Wooden and his extraordinary contributions, I highly recommend visiting his website at coachwooden.com. It is a treasure trove of valuable resources that can benefit coaches of all levels.

As I recently attended my daughter’s high school volleyball tournament, I was inspired by the sight of one team wearing shirts that read, “You practice for a season; we practice for life.” This motto reminded me of the life lessons that sports can impart, far beyond aiming for victories or scholarships. It also brought to mind the Pass It On site, an incredible resource that spreads positive values through its inspiring messages. I encourage you to explore their mission and join in growing the game with positivity.

I was pleasantly surprised to receive a free copy of Coach Wooden’s latest book, “A Game Plan for Life,” from Bloomsday last month. This book delves into the mentors who influenced Coach Wooden’s life and the people he, in turn, mentored. The stories and practical tips within the book are invaluable for anyone looking to become a better mentor.

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To conclude, I express my heartfelt gratitude to Coach Wooden for his immense contributions to the sport of volleyball and beyond. On this milestone birthday, we celebrate his legacy and the impact he has had on countless lives. Happy Birthday, Coach Wooden!