Life is Goodenough - Oct. 22, 2009

Inspirational Athletes

Being a college coach and an avid sports fan, I love reading stories about athletes who are breaking records, winning games as the underdog, or overcoming obstacles just to play their sport. I am so inspired by the great players who are not just excelling at their sport but who are also exceptional people and role models. Great examples are Florida’s Tim Tebow, arguably the best college football player, who is back from his concussion leading his team better than ever. Indiana Fever’s Tamika Catchings, who is a phenomenal offensive player, was recently named the WNBA Defensive Player of the Year. In Conference USA, the University of Houston’s Case Keenum, has thrown for over 2500 yards this season and is included in Heisman Trophy discussions. As a coach, you encourage character development through commitment and hard work. You also encourage your players to have high expectations for themselves and to follow the examples of other successful athletes and teams.

Here is a story about a successful team who has absolutely exceeded expectations that anyone had for them. You will not read anywhere else about this team or any of their team members but they have been very inspirational this year for me and many others.

Last season the Dubose Middle School Wildcat Volleyball team struggled to claim a 1-9 regular season record. Their one victory was heavily celebrated because it was one more than the 2007 season. Watching the team was difficult because not many games or even possessions went very well for this young 7th and 8th grade team.

With a good number of returners from the 2008 season returning this fall, expectations were not high for the 2009 campaign. After winning the first 2 matches on the opening night, however, parents and fans alike began to sit a little taller in the stands and cheer with a little more optimism than in the past. To much surprise, the Wildcat team continued improvements on serving and passing and even grew more confident about spiking as the season passed. The number of fans and their enthusiasm grew as the Wildcats rolled over opponents in district play. They fell to a very worthy opponent, River Oaks, in the middle of the season. The concern was how they would bounce back from that loss. They responded by winning the remainder of their matches!

The middle school team, who rarely got a serve over the net one season and finished last, came back with determination and teamwork to finish first this season! At the end of the season, Captain Gabby Grossi, received the Coaches Award. Newcomer, Hallie Colegrove, received the Most Improved Award. Lastly, Captain Bailey Goodenough, was named the Most Valuable Player.

From 1-9 to 9-1. From Last to First. As far as being inspirational-that is hard to beat!

Col 3:17