What It Takes To Be The Best Teammate Any Has Ever Had

Pat Williams was the keynote speaker at the UCF "Countdown To Kickoff" luncheon yesterday in the UCF Arena. I always enjoy hearing him speak. Had the opportunity to speak with him for just a few minutes before the event.

When he speaks he reminds me of Coach Wooden. You can feel the sincerity of his message. I remember when we had dinner with Coach Wooden in 2002. When he spoke, it was just like reading his books. His message, his interaction with us was so consistent with what he taught in his books and lectures. In his message yesterday you could hear his study of Coach Wooden coming through as he described what it takes to be the greatest teammate.

Jameer Nelson said his only goal was to be the best teammate anyone has ever had.
What does it take to be the best teammate any has ever had?

EMPOWER--uplift, Encourage..Spoken and Unspoken words. Rich DeVoss said his role at Amway is to be the head cheerleader

OUTWORK--maximum effort every day. Higher up the chain of significance, the harder you must work. Jordan, Walter Payton and Jerry Rice were never outworked.

CONSISTENT WITH ATTITUDE --Especially in practice. Team should never have to worry about are you in a good mood, etc. Don't be a "chirper" or a "duck quacking".

BE A CHARACTER PERSON--demonstrate class. On display 24/7. Coaches shouldn't have to worry about character of the team. Be a character person daily.

RESPONSIBLE--No Whining, No Complaining, No Excuses.

BE A LEADER ON/OFF COURT, IN THE LOCKER ROOM & IN YOUR PERSONAL LIFE--Don't wait to be appointed. You don't have to be invited to be a leader. Be prepared for the opportunity to lead when it comes.

BE TEACHABLE--Be a sponge. Soak up all the experiences. Then, become a teacher to other players. Have a teachable spirit.

HIT THE BOOKS--Sports end quickly. Your sport is a tool, it's a platform. Others can't learn for you.

BE FULLY PREPARED--Rest, Nutrition, Game Plan

TOTAL COMMITMENT TO EACH OTHER--Pride in excellence.

DON'T QUIT--Persevere through the tough times. Determination and Dedication.

ENTHUSIASM & PASSION--Flows to everyone

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE TEAM--Privilege of being on a team