Your Time Is Now
This week’s From the Bleachers is a little different. It is a personal letter to a former athlete, as he prepares for his college season opening game.
I want you to know how proud I am of the man you have become. I have watched your journey from Little League, to junior high, to high school. I had the privilege of recruiting you to East Texas A&M University, and I watched you continue to grow as a football player and as a young man.
Eventually, our paths took us in different directions. I went into the UFL and college administration, while you continued your football journey in college football at the highest levels. Look at where you are today. You have continued to improve, continued to work and continued to chase the dream. This could be one of the greatest years of your football career.
This is your chance. Do not get caught up in the hype or distracted by what people are saying about you or what may come after the season. Keep your eyes on what is directly in front of you. You cannot play tomorrow’s game today.
Play today’s game. Football is physical, but the mental part of the game is just as important. Stay focused on what you can control: your effort, your attitude and your preparation. Motivation may get you started, but discipline keeps you going.
Your standard has always been high. Keep it there. Do not lower it because you are tired, things are difficult or someone else is not meeting the standard. You know who you are, what you are capable of and how much work it took to get here.
Do not waste a day or a play. Every practice, class, workout and game is an opportunity to become better. Strive for excellence when nobody is watching, because that prepares you to perform.
Most importantly, always put God first. John 15:5 reminds us that apart from Him, we can do nothing. Let God guide you, keep you humble, strengthen you and remind you that your identity is bigger than football.
When you step onto that field, believe in yourself. Trust your preparation. Do your job. Win the moment. Then move to the next play.
Pardner, I have watched you grow from a little boy into a man with an incredible opportunity. Your time is now. Be great today. Then wake up tomorrow and do it again. I believe in you. I always have. I love you.
Thought for the week, “Attitude is everything.” Tracy Welch, legendary coach.
Dr. Jack Welch serves as President of Fort Scott Community College. With a career spanning professional sports, public education, and rural community development, he brings a servant-leader mindset and a passion for building trust-driven cultures that empower people to thrive in the classroom, on the field, and in life. He is also the author of Foundations of Coaching: The Total Coaching Manual.