In 2008, Pat Williams, the GM of the Orlando Magic and a tremendous motivational speaker put out a book, "The Ultimate Coaches' Clinic." It is a fascinating book because of the style Pat utilized. He surveyed over 1000 coaches and administrators for insights to what is important to successfully do their job. From time to time I will share a few but it is a great book to own and I highly recommend it. Here are some thoughts from Hall of Famer Clarence "Big House" Gaines. It is easy to see from his thought below why he was so beloved by his playeers: 1. Your players are not just athletes, but also young men you are training for productive lives. You are their coach, father, counselor, cheerleader and disciplinarian.
2. Keep the emphasis on academics and getting a college degree. Athletic careers will end quickly, but life goes on for a long time. That degree will unlock a lot of doors in the future.
3. Don't isolate the players from the rest of the campus life. Encourage your players to get involved in many different areas of the community.
4. Players can get in trouble all over the place. Never stop warning them about avoiding dangerous areas and making wise personal decisions.
