This summer, the Chicago Cubs were down to their last out and facing a three run deficit.  The bases were loaded for David Bote, a player who spent over six years in the minor leagues.  Bote was facing a 2-2 count when he delivered a game-winning walk-off grand slam that sent Wrigley Field and its fans into a raucous celebration.  The moment, televised on Sunday Night Baseball, was one of the highlights of the 2018 season.

A cool note to the story was the reaction of Bote’s wife, Rachel.  Rachel was not originally watching the game.  She was at their apartment located right by Wrigley field with their two children.  She stepped outside on the balcony with David facing a 1-2 count.  Moments later, she heard the eruption from the crowd.  Here’s how David describes it:

“We can see Wrigley Field from our apartment. She watched the rest of the at-bat and she opened the door just to kinda hear what was going on. She watched the hit and then she heard Wrigley Field erupt and she took a picture of Wrigley Field, bright lights and just listening to the crowd singing, ‘Go Cubs Go’ and screaming and she could watch it on TV.

“So it was kinda cool. Because she’s had to grind it out with us as well — six years in the minors. So for her, she goes, her words were, ‘Sometimes baseball gives you a moment to just sit back and enjoy.’ So it was really cool to hear her say that.”

A Personal Story:

I was an assistant coach for nine years; my wife, Lowrie, was with me for the entire journey.  Our teams were having a lot of success, but I couldn’t land a head coaching job that we really wanted.  Our first child had been born and I began to question if I was being selfish staying in coaching.  As you know, long and awkward hours accompany the coaching profession.  And, at the small school level, the pay-especially for assistants- isn’t lucrative.

I began exploring alternative employment.  I had several meetings with various people and professions.  At one point, I was close to pursuing an opportunity in financial planning.  One night, I approached Lowrie and said, “I think there is a chance I could make a lot more money and I’ll have more stable hours.”  Her reaction to this will forever be in my mind. “I didn’t marry a financial planner.  I married you.”

My Team:

All my life- from sports, to relationships, to coaching- I’ve been a part of strong teams.  There have been times where I thought I could do things on my own; my goodness, was I wrong.

I cannot tell you how many people have enhanced my life journey.  Any success or happiness is a direct result of being raised by loving, encouraging and demanding parents.  A product of my environment, the blue-collar city of Washington, PA is forever engrained in my personality.  Along the path, I’ve attracted amazing friends, from all different walks of life.  These friends have supported me in many different ways: listening, challenging, and advising.   My in-laws, have always spoke positive words and allowed me to chase my dreams.  Brian Brewer, the head baseball coach at Marietta College, brought me into the coaching profession.  Not only that, he encouraged me to be myself, despite my methods being different than most coaches.  A fun part of the team is the former players and coaches I used to work with; to this day they offer guidance and support.  Finally, Lowrie and the kids.  A common question often asked on job interviews is, “what is your greatest strength?”  My answer is: Lowrie.  She gives me the freedom to put in an insane amount of time and energy into other people’s kids.

Alone, I’m a dime a dozen; however, with the team, we are able to accomplish incredible things.

A Call for Reflection:

Life can move fast, if we let it.  We can become self-absorbed and live in our own bubble. If we aren’t intentional about recognizing all the help we’ve received along the way, it becomes easy to lose touch.  “This is all me.”  “I’m a self-made man.”  I don’t need anyone.”  This mindset can quickly lead to an inflated ego and a loss of reality.

This week, I challenge you to do three things:

First, think about all the people who have guided you along your path.  Better yet, I encourage you to write a handwritten note or call someone who has made you better.

Second, start thinking intentionally about your personal team.  Who are the people that are supporting your journey?  Who should you “recruit” to join your team?

Third, what value are you bringing to other people’s team?  How can you support another’s journey?

I love Rachel Bote’s reflection, “Sometimes baseball gives you a moment to just sit back and enjoy.”  Being a part of team, in all different forms, allows for these special moments.  Be intentional about building and supporting your teams.

Make it a great week,

Mike

P.S. My friend, and Denison University baseball alumnus, James Clear’s book,” Atomic Habits,” is set to release on October 16^th.   I’ve read an advance copy and I believe it will add a tremendous amount of value.  The book is currently 40% off on Amazon. Here’s the link: https://amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299