Yesterday in Los Angeles John Wooden was laid to rest. Over the past couple of weeks a lot has been written about this coaching icon of college basketball. Coach Wooden won a record 10 NCAA Men's Basketball titles in a row in the 1960's and 1970's. I grew up watching those great teams led by Bill Walton, Sidney Wicks and Dave Myers.
But as those years have passed by I've found out what a great man Coach Wooden was. A very humble Midwesterner from Indiana he led by example. Great books and for me his great quotes have left lasting impressions.
"When you improve a little each day, eventually big things occur . . . Seek small improvement one day at a time. That's the only way it happens and when it happens it lasts."
The testament to any great coach is the respect that he builds with his players. Clearly John Wooden is at the top of this pyramid. When you read the stories of so many of his former players flying in from around the country and world to visit him in the hospital in his last days you see the true impact of this man. Coach Wooden was more than just a coach to his players at UCLA. He was a leader with great wisdom and character.
That is respect. That is as good as it gets.
My favorite John Wooden quote has always been,
"Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are."
Coach Wooden was a great man, a great teacher and a great family man. We should all strive to attain these accolades. Rest in peace Coach Wooden and thanks for all your wisdom that you've shared with everyone.
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