November 08, 2008
Nick Saban back to LSU and Baton Rouge
By Chad Durbin, Showcase U Co-founder
The buzz in Baton Rouge, Louisiana is all about Nick Saban coming back to LSU after leaving for the NFL and then, ultimately heading back to the SEC to coach The Crimson Tide.
What it all makes me think about is what kind of impact a coach can have on his players and his community. Nick Saban changed the way the players thought at LSU while he was there. He changed the culture in Baton Rouge, transcending sports in many ways. All of a sudden, his business-like approach and hard-nosed attitude on and off the field, turned the entire city's ways of thinking. I'm not saying that one man can make all the difference, but one man can certainly motivate whomever "buys in" and follows his lead.
When good coaches, parents, or leaders step into a landscape where their consistency and work ethic can be taught and applied by the student-athletes...change is certain. My high school basketball coach, Kenny Almond, still affects the way I think on and off the field. Whether it sinks in today or tomorrow, or ten years down the road...leaders in life should be cherished.
So, coaches...parents...high school seniors, PLEASE, make a difference in the people who follow you and buy into who you are and what you stand for. The impact can have very long-term ramifications. It's very important on both ends, to be receptive and have perspective.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE! I know that is why ShowcaseU.com is in existence and I hope, with all of your help, that it can live up to our vision.
Chad