Have you ever witnessed a miracle?
On the night of the miracle J-Mac game, a lot of lives were changed forever – mine included. Since that game, I have retired from coaching, gotten into professional speaking, and become very supportive of those trying to make their dreams, much like Jason did 14 years ago (just had the 14-year anniversary on February 15th). What did that night teach me? What did I learn? In the #CJJblog this week, I give you some life lessons that I have since come to realize that game taught us all. Enjoy.
- Jason showed tremendous perseverance throughout his high school basketball career. Despite never making the team, he tried out three straight years for the varsity team, eventually becoming the team manager. Do you possess that level of determination?
- When I think of commitment, I think of Jason’s determination to show his team how much he cared for them. He would be the first one to arrive at practice and the last one to leave the gym every day. What are you committed to?
- He was dedicated to his team and the game of basketball. He was relentless in his delivery of passion and he showed this through his loyalty to his teammates.
- Carpe diem. Seize the day? Jason would say he was training his whole life preparing for that night on February 15th, 2006. Was he ready for the spotlight? Scoring 20 points in four minutes, I would say he was more than ready.
- Yes, Jason made all the shots that night, but his teammates need to be recognized for their selflessness that night. They didn’t have to pass him the ball every possession at the end of the game, but they did. Teamwork really does makes the dream work.
- Despite experiencing some adversity that season, Jason was able to keep our team together and give us the spark we needed that night. His “stay focused” mantra kept us on track even when times go tough.
- Kick start the team. After the game, which was Senior Night, and the last of the regular season. We rode the wave all the way to a NY State Section V title. What has kick started your team?
- Jason was always a part of the team. Even though he only got to play those magical four minutes, his presence was felt throughout the entire season. His teammates made it a point to make him feel included.
Did you Know? Coach Jim Johnson has added a new keynote to his repertoire with his Keys to building a successful team and How to deliver a powerful presentation presentations and has multiple engagements delivering it to High School and College students in the coming months.
Life Tip #65: You should always look to add value to people.
Deckard & Company