Quotable Quotes

All opinions expressed in the blog are solely my own. This blog is not an official publication of any City of Melrose institution. 

First, everyone at the game was asking for Ella and how she is doing. "Shout out to Ella!"

No, it's not a JEOPARDY category. Today, examine quotes from outstanding coaches from Pat Williams' classic, "The Ultimate Coaches' Career Manual." 

Williams extracts wisdom from coaches across sports, some contemporary and some historical. 

DEREK DOOLEY (University of Tennessee)

"Do they respect your level of competency to put them in a position to succeed? They must think that you know what you are doing at every step, and if they listen, they will succeed."

BEAR BRYANT (University of Alabama)

You can learn from anybody. I don't hire anybody who is not brighter than I am. If they're not smarter than me, I don't need them. Little things make the difference. 

JOHN STEARNS (Washington Nationals Minor League Manager)

Make sure your players clearly understand their roles. The two key rules are: play hard and be on time. 

PETE ROSE (Cincinnati Reds)

Constantly emphasize winning, practicing, and having fun while practicing. You have one set of rules, but each guy is to be treated differently based on his personality. 

GENE MAUCH (Philadelphia Phillies)

Focus on the fundamentals. Play the percentages. Over the long haul that will pay off. 

RAY KNIGHT (Cincinnati Reds)

You are judged on your ability to evaluate talent. This is a key part of your value to an organization. We tend to evaluate young players too quickly. You've got to be patient and always lean to the players' side. 

TERRY FRANCONA (Boston Red Sox)

Work hard. Put your players first. Have fun. 

JOHN MACKOVIC (University of Texas)

You must dream big dreams to be something special. If you do not set the standards and values for your team, someone else will. Never trade your integrity for a quick victory. 

JOHNNY MAJORS (University of Tennessee)

You are a teacher and must love to teach. Your team must be disciplined. Your players must hustle and never give up. 

JIM YOUNG (Purdue University)

Get away by yourself and spend some time thinking. Devote time to meditate on your plans and new ideas. 

THERESA GRENTZ (University of Illinois)

You want your players to be critical thinkers, to be able to solve problems, and express themselves. Never take advice about your team from someone who doesn't know you. 

MIKE KRZYZEWSKI (Duke University)

I would allow my assistants to give their input and be able to coach. It should not be a one-man operation. The best way to gain respect is to tell the players the truth. Look them in the eye and tell them, "This is the way it is." 

Lagniappe. Encourage a sense of urgency with the first ball kill drill.