What we seek within our developmental program is to blend the physical and psychological growth of our student-athletes through a progression of skill building within a much bigger framework.
I am a huge devotee of the greatest basketball coach of all time, Coach John Wooden of the UCLA Bruins. Coach Wooden emphasizes a foundation for greatness including the corner pillars of industrious and enthusiasm, and the center blocks of condition, skill, and team spirit on the path to competitive greatness. He defines success as the knowledge that you did all you could to do the best, from preparation to implementation.
If you achieve that which is available to you, you have succeeded, whether you reach a championship level or something less.
The fifth grade team continued its 'progression' today, a snowy New England winter day, with a victory at Wakefield. The team has worked hard and continues to make incremental gains, but has really excelled at TEAM SPIRIT with every player cheering on another's success.
We have spoken about the importance of developing "shutdown" defenders. Inevitably, scorers get recognition, but those who prevent scoring and facilitate it (the defenders, rebounders, and playmakers) need to maintain their enthusiasm for doing the heavy lifting that brings success.
Bruce Bowen is an NBA player whose defensive efforts helped bring San Antonio championships.
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