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Coach E.
July 08, 2024
Quote of the week
"The discipline and commitment you develop in sports are the same qualities that will help you succeed in any aspect of life." - Coach E.
Story of The Week
It was said Cooper loved soccer from the time he could kick his feet when he was still in his mother's womb. Despite not having natural quickness or speed, he became an extraordinary player. Cooper's success stemmed from his unparalleled coachability, relentless work ethic, and tireless training, improving his weaknesses while loving every minute of it. After years of being the standout player on his team in a Canadian city, Cooper received an incredible opportunity: a contract, at 15, to live and play with a prestigious club in England. To pursue his dream, he had to go.
In England, Cooper faced an entirely new level of play, speed, and intensity. While most would have packed their bags and flown home to mommy, Cooper thrived, embracing every challenge with unbridled enthusiasm. Practicing and grinding harder than ever, he loved every grueling moment. At 18, he was rewarded with a three-year contract, and his professional career took flight. He proved that passion and hard work could triumph over natural speed.
However, at the adult pro level, everyone matched his dedication and skill but were half a step quicker. After his second season, the club axed his contract. Devastated, Cooper returned home, feeling lost after dedicating his life to soccer. He took a construction job for the summer and quickly realized he had a stronger work ethic than the older men around him. Instead of complaining, he pushed himself to learn more about the job and business.
A few years passed, and Cooper, now a foreman, knew he needed to run his own company. Fast forward to his 30s, and Cooper was the proud owner of Coop Construction, a thriving company worth $5 million. Sitting in his office, Cooper reflected on his journey. He realized that sports were not just about the game but about the profound life lessons learned. The attributes he honed in soccer—discipline, hard work, and perseverance—transferred to business, leading to his astounding success.
Getting let go had been a blessing in disguise. By 40, he bought 50% of the team that once told him it was time to hang up his cleats. The irony was not lost on him. Cooper had achieved greatness, not in the way he had originally envisioned, but in a way that fulfilled him beyond his wildest dreams. He transformed his disappointment into motivation, building an empire and proving that true success is about the journey and the lessons learned along the way.
For Athletes, Parents, and Coaches:
The odds of playing professional sports and earning enough money to be set for life are slim. Only 2% of college athletes play some form of professional sports, and less than 1% make generational wealth. Whether an athlete's journey ends in high school or college, the transferable life lessons learned through sports can provide a significant advantage in the real world. In 2024, society is rife with excuses and laziness. By having a strong work ethic and personal discipline, you are already ahead of 90% of the population. Athletes, parents, and coaches let's continue to ensure that "learning life lessons through sport" remains the core foundation of what we do. Work hard to be a winner now, and you will win later in life when it truly matters.
Stat of the week
Amazing Free Throw Records
NBA - Most consecutive made:
97, Michael Williams, 1993
87, Jose Calderon, 2008-09
82, Dirk Nowitzki, 2011
Ted St. Martin holds the record with 5,221 consecutive free throws made in 1996 without a miss.
Northwestern College's Deb Remmerde's had the unbelievable streak of 133 straight free throws made which is the record for most in organized basketball history in her 2005-2006 season.
Can you make 3 in a row?
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