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Sacrifice, Struggle, Success
Coach E.
August 19, 2024
Quotes of the week
"Stop whining, start grinding." -Coach E.
"Your future self is watching. Achieve greatness, no excuses." - Coach E.
Story of The Week
Harrison Barnes' journey from humble beginnings to becoming a high school star, college athlete, and NBA player is a testament to hard work, dedication, and sacrifice. Born in 1992 to Shirley Barnes, who faced difficult financial times and homelessness, Harrison’s early life was marked by significant challenges.
Shirley Barnes, a single mother, struggled to provide for Harrison and his sister, Jourdan-Ashle. When Harrison was just three months old, they were forced into a homeless shelter. Despite these hardships, Shirley remained determined to give her children a better life. They eventually moved into Section 8 housing in Ames, Iowa, where Shirley worked at Iowa State University.
From a young age, Harrison displayed a remarkable work ethic. At ten, he worked for a local farmer, saving money to support his basketball dreams. His mother, though not a basketball player herself, was relentless in supporting his ambitions. She bought instructional videos and spent hours rebounding for him at the gym.
In high school he went from unknown to one of the best. Harrison sacrificed his free time, dedicating himself to rigorous training. He spent countless hours working on his shooting, ball-handling, and physical conditioning. His early morning workouts, combined with his evening practice sessions, exemplified his commitment to improving his game.
Harrison's dedication paid off, earning a scholarship to the University of North Carolina (UNC). At UNC, he continued to excel, contributing significantly to the team. His college performance led to being drafted in the first round of the 2012 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors. Harrison went on to win an NBA championship, play for Team USA, and achieve numerous accolades in his professional career.
Harrison's story is not just one of personal success but also of giving back. Inspired by his mother’s sacrifices and charitable work, he has engaged in various philanthropic endeavors, supporting single mothers and underserved communities. “There are three things that come to mind with my upbringing with my mom,” Harrison said. “Giving, support and sacrifice.”
Harrison Barnes' journey from homelessness to the NBA is a powerful example of resilience, hard work, and the impact of a supportive, determined mother.
Athletes/Parents
You can think Harrison Barnes was successful because he was 6'8 but in reality, there are 1000s of 6'8 kids that play basketball and never even make an impact in college let alone make the NBA. If you want to be successful at anything it has to become a priority and sacrifices made. Do you have a tougher life than Harrison Barnes? Did you work for a farmer at 10 years old to help your mom? Don't make excuses. Here is some insight into Harrison Barnes before he became a highly recruited high school athlete and college star. It did not happen by accident.
Daily: Early morning workouts that included weight training, cardio, and skill drills. Barnes dedicated hours to perfecting his shooting form, frequently shooting hundreds of shots per session to improve his accuracy. He also focused on ball-handling, footwork, and defensive techniques to become a versatile player. After school and team practices, he continued with individual workouts, practicing late into the evening.
Weekly: Barnes followed a strict weight training regimen and incorporated agility drills to enhance his quickness and ability to change direction.
Training with teammates and older players also played a crucial role, along with mentorship from former players and coaches.
Always: Barnes made significant sacrifices, limiting his social activities and missing numerous events to focus on basketball. Balancing school and training required excellent time management, often studying late at night or during breaks in his training.
Don't say you can't. Either find a way or admit you don't want to do what it takes. If you want it, then be more like Harrison Barnes.
Stat of the week
Strong & Weird
Heaviest Bench Press Record
Jimmy Kolb (USA) - 1,105 Pounds on February 26, 2022
Most Repetitions of a 225-pound Bench Press
Julius Maddox (USA) - 78 Reps in April 2019
Most Cars Pulled by a Human
Reverend Kevin Fast (Canada) - 12 Cars totaling 45,848 lbs
September 21, 2008
Most Weight Lifted by a Human Beard
Antanas Kontrimas (Lithuania) - 308 lbs on June 26, 2013
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