My Readers, I regret to inform you that I have to bring to you more sad news, this time from the World of Sports.
In the same week one of baseball’s legends retired, the college basketball world lost one of, if not, the greatest coaches in college sports history. Legendary UCLA basketball coach John Wooden passed away at the age of 99 last night in a California hospital.
Now I must apologize that I cannot write as much about John Wooden as I did Ken Griffey Jr. as I am too young to have had the privilege of witnessing the legendary teams that Wooden constantly had on the basketball court. How good were these teams? From 1976-1973, Wooden’s UCLA teams had an amazing winning streak of 88 straight games. During his career, his teams had 4 perfect 30-0 seasons, a 38 game winning streak in NCAA tournament games and a record 98 straight home wins on their home court. If that is not signs of an elite coach then I don’t what is. Wooden was the model of consistency.
Players attested to his humbleness and he worked two jobs at the start of his career to get bye. Wooden was famous for his Pyramid of Success, which includes such elements as Industriousness, Friendship, Loyalty, Poise and Intentness. Today’s coaches may view this Pyramid differently with fame, money, and tournament appearances at the top of their list. There is a serious shortage of coaches like Wooden today and that is truly a shame
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I’m sorry I cannot say more on the man, but his reputation speaks for itself.
So, I salute you John Wooden. We need more coaches in the league like you these days. You were the best, and my only regret is that I am too young to have seen you in action. Rest in Peace my friend, hope your afterlife is as successful as your mortal, yet sometimes appearing immortal, life was here on earth.
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