Congratulations on your college acceptance and a successful senior season. Hopefully your high school career ended with a championship win and multiple post season honors; be proud, celebrate and enjoy those moments.

It is now time to focus on the future and your potential as a student-athlete. As a recipient of many of these letters last year when I was standing in your shoes, I read them, and took them to heart and prepared myself to make the smoothest possible transition to a Division I college athletics. I do not think I would be where I am today if I did not complete that demanding summer workouts. As you look at your workouts know that every day counts and for every day that you miss you are one day behind the rest of your teammates. You will not be the only one working out this summer. Know that the competition is high and the margin for error is low. Come to campus over prepared and you will be rewarded.

I encourage you to join me in arriving at school in the fall in excellent physical condition. Your ability to contribute to this team will be defined by your efforts, skills, motivation, and determination. You and I and our teammates selected this institution because we wanted a good education and we wanted to continue our athletic careers as winners. I look forward to working with you on succeeding on both fronts.

Enjoy the rest of your summer and I look forward to seeing you in September.

Sincerely,

Your teammate


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?