My favorite basketball coach recently passed away. Granted, I did not have many of them (more on that later.) I attended his visitation mostly because of my relationship with his grandson, but I could not help but think of his coaching.
As I was waiting in line to share my condolences with the family I realized what was so great about Coach Willard. He made you feel so good about yourself, you played better than you really were. Or at least felt like you were better than you really were. In fact, I remember a come from behind victory in the championship game. I am certain it is because of his belief in us and positivity. He did not lead you to believe anything irrational, he just made little league basketball players feel good about themselves. I came to this realization because I was not very good, but I never got that impression from him.
I did, however, learn that not long after Willard was my coach. Reflecting on that is what made me realize just how good a coach he was.
Willard Davis was a good man who cared about kids, and he used his way–basketball– to make a difference in their life.
So many years later, I have learned the most important lesson from him. To build up and make people feel good about themselves. It lasts a lot longer than shooting drills.
I’m sorry for your loss. This was a really nice post in his honor. He sounds like a really good person to play for.