Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

Hello,

I hope you have been enjoying your summer so far, but now it’s time to get to work! The more work you put in now, the more you will benefit in the future. That one extra sprint could win you playing time, or even a starting spot. Every little bit you do truly makes a difference.

Keep in mind you are no longer titled a “recruit.” You now have a name and number on this team and we are all so excited to have you joining us! Soccer is obviously a fall sport, so it is our job to come in fit so we can get right into training. The more time we spend on having to get fit during practice, the more soccer time we lose causing us to fall behind other programs. It would be a lie for me to say we won’t be doing preseason fitness, but the coaches are willing to have us do less fitness if we are willing to come in more fit. Our team is ready to step forward and we need your help! I know how hard it can be some days to motivate yourself to go outside in the hot summer to do fitness, but it is something that just has to be done. We have extremely high hopes for all of you and getting fit is the first step. Test yourself on those days where fitness is the last thing you want to be doing. Think about our team and get out there and get it done. This program is your future and it will all pay off…I promise. All your hard work will pay off on the morning of our run test. When you pass that test you will know what I’m talking about.

The summer is a time to spend time with your friends and family before heading off to college. Enjoy your time with them, but keep your new family and friends in the back of your mind. This team is going to be your new friends and this program is going to be your new family. You are going to make new best friends just as I did. The summer workout is your chance to begin to adjust to the demands of our program before actually setting foot on campus. Enjoy the rest of your summer and get ready for an amazing fall! The NCAA tournament is in our near future, so get ready!! We DO NOT want the season to end like it did last year. I will see all you in August!! Can’t wait!

Sincerely,

Your teammate