I don't think it's fair to 12-, 13- and 14-year-olds to say 'Show us you're a winner right now!' Winning isn't everything. I'll never buy that thing that if a boy loses a football game, he's a loser in life.
Joe PaternoRead
What counts in sports is not the victory, but the magnificence of the struggle.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The essence of sports lies in the effort and determination shown during the competition rather than just the outcome.
Joe Paterno highlights that in sports, the true value lies not in achieving victory, but in the dedication, effort, and lessons learned throughout the struggle. This perspective encourages athletes to appreciate the journey and personal growth that comes from facing challenges, rather than merely fixating on the final result of winning or losing.
Themes
SportsStruggleEffortVictoryMotivation
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to young athletes about the importance of hard work and perseverance in sports.
More from Joe Paterno
All quotes βMy thing was play as hard as you can, don't be stupid, pay attention to details, and have enough guts in the clutch that you're not afraid to make a play. Some things I thought were important for a young man to know.
Joe PaternoRead
They ask me what I'd like written about me when I'm gone. I hope they write I made Penn State a better place, not just that I was a good football coach.
Joe PaternoRead
What is a coach? We are teachers. Educators. We have the same obligations as all teachers, except we probably have more influence over young people than anybody but their families. And, in a lot of cases, more than their families.
Joe PaternoRead
The name on the front of the jersey is what really matters, not the name on the back.
Joe PaternoRead
Similar quotes
If Iβm committed, there is always a way.
Tony RobbinsRead
Whatever your circumstances, whatever your past, the forces that determine your future are nowhere but within your own heart and mind. It is here that the star of your destiny shines.
Daisaku IkedaRead
You close the door on me and tell me I can't, I'm gonna find a way to get in.
Tyler PerryRead
To reach the height of our ambition is like trying to reach the rainbow; as we advance it recedes.
Edmund BurkeRead
Any guy who can maintain a positive attitude without much playing time certainly earns my respect.
Magic JohnsonRead
That everybody can do something, without regard to how old or young they are, rich or poor or middle class they are, how busy or not busy they are and what level skills they have. Everyone can do something. And everybody should do something. ... And if you do it, you'll be happier.
William J. ClintonRead