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| Most career game-winning goals – 129. Most career overtime goals – 20. Only player to play in the Stanley Cup Finals as a teenager and at 40+ years of age. Oldest player to score 60 points in a season. He was drafted in 1990 and presently plays professional hockey in Florida. |
Dr. Kelvin Elko is a world-renowned sports psychologist who has
worked with numerous NFL teams and Fortune 500 companies. I have had the
pleasure of listening to him talk on an occasion and one story always sticks
out in my mind. Dr. Elko was talking about playing and working with passion,
not just for the glory or for money. In the long run, he said, having that flame
or passion will allow you to succeed and be happy. He gave the example of
superstar NHL player Jaromir Jagr, who wears number 68. Why 68? In 1968, the
Soviet army invaded the nation of Czechoslovakia. In the chaos, Jagr’s
grandfather was jailed. While imprisoned, he fell ill; he died shortly after
his release. Jagr had not yet been born, but learned all about his grandfather
from family members. He has since dedicated his playing days to his late
grandfather and wears 68 to remind him of what he is playing for — what
conviction really means.
“So what is your 68?” Dr. Elko asks. It is a fair question. Each
of us has a 68 inside, that thing that stirs our passion; that keeps us
committed even when we face adversity. It shapes our convictions. Perhaps your
68 is a family member or a time or place or even a burning desire to prove
something to someone.
This Wednesday, I challenge the Lady Red Devils to play for
their 68. You know who they are. Play with purpose. Play with
conviction. Play for your teammates. Play for your coaches. Play for your
family. Play for your school. Play for those who cannot. Play for your
Creator...above all else, bring Honor and Glory.
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| Leading by Example |
Softball Side Notes:
- Players, thank you for representing Phenix City and Central High School with class and dignity. Your poise under pressure; your skill in the clutch; your attitude of thankfulness; and your leadership on and off the diamond is a model for both young and old alike. Do what you do, as you have done it and good things will happen.
- Coaches, every organization and team will display characteristics of its leadership. Your team will talk, respond, perform, and serve as you. SEE #1. Kudos to you!
- Red Devil Nation, over the weekend, the softball team won our first Regional Softball Championship! Please take time out to congratulate and encourage them. Best of all, if you can, take a trip to Montgomery on Wednesday and lend them your support.
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| It is the little things that wins championships. |
