The Great Coach: John R. Wooden

A Great Leader has passed.

Coach John R. Wooden was beloved around the world
for his wonderful principles not only on playing
the best game, but living the best life.

While I never got to meet this great man in person,
he was kind enough to allow me the use of several
of his quotes in my first published book,
"Be the Hero of Your Own Game."
I'd like to share those with you in honor of The Coach.

In "BEFORE THE GAME" is one of John Wooden''s most famous quotes.

"Failure to prepare is preparing to fail"
--John R. Wooden UCLA


In "WHAT CHEERLEADERS KNOW" is. "When you add others you add strength"
--Coach John Wooden

In "WHAT CHEERLEADERS LEARN FROM THE GAME" His the opening quote followed by paragraph from the book.


TAKE THE BIG PLAY
"Competitive greatness is the enjoyment of a difficult challenge. Not being afraid to risk it all."
--John R. Wooden


Coach John Wooden said that many guys are afraid to take the "Big Shot" when it comes. Even professional athletes sometimes avoid the "Big Play." Wooden says sometimes only one team member is willing to take the "Big Play" and risk failure. If that "Big Play" comes to you, will you take it? Coach Wooden says that you will, if you have "competitive greatness" and that involves two things. One, the enjoyment of a difficult challenge and two, being your best when your best is needed.

A leader has to conquer fear. An Inner Cheerleader has to be willing to risk making the "Big Play" when it comes.

Coach John Wooden mentored business executive, professional coach and trainer, Lynn Guerin. I was fortunate enough to be able to take this training course on Wooden's Principles Guerin said, "Coach Wooden is the most consistent person I know." because John Wooden followed the same principles in his personal life as in the game."

May we be the ones now to inspire others to win in the Big Game as a tribute to the Master Encourager, John R, Wooden - the Great Coach.

Live like a hero!
Terri Marie

P.S. I have another story about John Wooden's Miracle basketball but I will share that another time...