Risk taking without proper research and observations becomes destined to ride into the failure lane that so many fear.

Most had tears in their eyes and that’s a good thing. Tears meant they understood the finality of Wednesdays’ district basketball games ending. It also meant that the overall experience was truly impactful. The seniors lined up single file facing me. Behind me was the rest of the coaching staff and the underclassmen. One by one, I thanked each senior for his commitment tothe program. I shared one tidbit that I uniquely loved about them and finished with a final hug. The process was repeated with every team member. On this night it was a struggle to keep my composure. This was a special team.

Without a plan, without an analyzed approach, persistence alone is child’s play and leads to frustration. I have said for years that the greatest thing competitive sports can teach someone is how to self-evaluate and make plans for improvement.

One of the strangest phone calls I ever received as a head coach was from the father of a “Scout team” player. “Coach Glodich, this is Bobby’s dad. I am having some issues with my son and he just won’t listen or do anything I say. He thinks the world of you and will do anything for you. I was wondering if you would help me discipline him for some of his behavior. I want him to run laps on the track. I will be there to watch and monitor. If you tell him to run, he will. Of course, I would let him get water if needed.”

The old adage is “a picture is worth a thousand words(palabras)” and this snapshot has inspired me to pen some words to my buddy Luca who might read them years down the road.

It was a phrase we preached to our athletes from day one. We collectively as a group (coaches) do not like surprises.

We stressed that when you look a coach in the eye, and communicate in a mature adult way, respect will be gained on both sides.

In the summer of 2016, I experienced an interaction with an athlete that seemed like a punch in the gut initially but as time marched forward the interaction transitioned into a powerful story.