Sunday, October 14, 2012

"We Hold These Truths"

The second paragraph of the Declaration of Independence begins: "We hold these truths to be self-evident"

The reality for coaches is that certain truths contain harsh reality. Sports teaches us the value of hard work, teamwork, competition, preparation, discipline, and other core principles. 

But it reminds us that life is dynamic, ever-changing. 

In a recent set of (basketball) coaching notes, Celtics assistant coach Kevin Eastman defines some of those truths:

"It's time to keep learning, it's time to improve, it's time for success, and it's time to become more."

"If the mental ever meets the physical, then you will be great."

"Once someone can do what you do, plus one more thing, then you will be replaced."

"Your role may not be what you want, but it will help us win a championship."

"If you find your niche, you will find the floor."

The coaching staff will find a place for you, when you find yourself ready to fill a role. "Your job isn't to run plays, it's to make plays." For example, as a freshman, Paula Sen became an athletic, weak-side (opposite) blocker in the second half of the season. As a sophomore, Rachel Johnson filled the same role in the middle. 

 If you go to 8:05 of the video, you see the impact she made down the stretch. 

There are JV players who are very close in athleticism and skill to developing a varsity role. They need to find a way to force themselves into the conversation. 

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