A Unified Front

My memory stinks. I do, however, have a few vivid memories that I’ll never forget. My first pregame coaching staff meeting comes to mind.

I walked into this meeting completely unprepared. Just three years removed from college, I was still a player at heart. I thought, “how hard could this be?”

Brian Brewer, who was in his first year as a head coach, immediately took control. “Deegan, give me your lineup.” I stuttered and stammered giving my unconvincing opinion. The other coaches in the room followed with their thoughts. When I was asked to explain my thoughts, I had nothing of substance to add.

That day, I learned how much time, energy, and thought went into the decisions. We analyzed everything: from weather to the opponent. We knew the starters, long relief and short relief if we were ahead vs. behind, pinch runners, right hand/left hand pinch hitters. We discussed the pre and post-game meals, pregame routine… nothing was left to chance. Voices would be raised and sometimes feelings were hurt. We all shared a common goal, which was to give the team the best chance of success. Fighting was encouraged behind closed doors, but we were to leave as a unified front.

What I learned:How much time and energy goes into making decisions. The importance of being thoroughly prepared.Displaying the courage to fight for your beliefs.The importance in diversity of thought (Brew would shout, “I don’t want a bunch of ‘yes men”). To avoid taking things personally.When a decision was made, even if you disagreed, you did everything in your power to support it and help make it work. A decision is good based upon the process not the result. You take all the information, decide, and then whatever happens, happens.

Perhaps the greatest long-term lesson was learning how much goes into a decision. I’m much more supportive of decision makers because of the experience.

Times are tough. I’m observing as we try to reopen the country, restart schools and universities, and begin playing professional sports. I’ve witnessed a lot of emotion and anger over what should be done.

I’ve leaned into my experience in sports to help myself during this time. I can only imagine the amount of information that is being analyzed behind closed doors. I can only imagine the arguments taking place in order to work toward solutions. I can only imagine the stress and struggle of individuals and their families as decisions are made that affect so many.

My Personal Rules:I assume positive intent from the groups and individuals making decisions.If a decision is critical to myself or family I try to get in the room.If I cannot get in the room, I try to have a conversation with someone who can influence. Once a decision is made, even if I don’t like it, I will support it unless it breaks a core value of mine.If a core value is broken, I won’t complain- I will take action.

Final Thoughts:
Coaching meetings changed how I view the world. Now, I rarely second guess people and organizations who are working tirelessly to do what they believe is best.

I am rooting for the world, our country, and our communities. I am praying and thinking about the decision makers in political office, business, school and professional sport.

I refuse to play Monday morning quarterback and second guess every decision. I refuse to act like I know the correct answer when I lack accurate information. I refuse to shame people who have different views.

Please join me in supporting our decision makers. Challenging times lie ahead. Let’s resolve to do everything in our power to make this situation better. Like coaches leaving a meeting room, we need a unified front.

Negativity is in abundance. What stops us from being an encouraging presence in our communities?

Clouds are all around, rays of sunlight are needed.

Mike

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