If you want to be a Champion, you've got to feel like one, you've got to act like one, you've got to look like one.
Red AuerbachRead
To be a successful coach you should be and look prepared. You must be a man of integrity. Never break your word. Don't have two sets of standards. Remember you don't handle players-you handle pets. You deal with players. Stand up for your players. Show them you care-on and off the court. Very important-it's not 'how' or 'what' you say but what they absorb.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Successful coaching is rooted in integrity, preparation, and genuine care for players.
This quote emphasizes that effective coaching requires more than just tactical knowledge; it demands integrity, preparation, and a deep commitment to the players. Auerbach highlights the importance of treating players with respect and understanding, ensuring that communication is meaningful and authentic, which ultimately fosters trust and growth within the team.
Themes
CoachingIntegrityLeadershipPlayersSuccess
In practice
Example use cases
A coach could use this quote during a team meeting to inspire integrity and care among players.
More from Red Auerbach
All quotes →I don't believe in statistics. There are too many factors that can't be measured. You can't measure a ballplayer's heart.
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I never took a position we were going to be a good ball club. I took the position we were going to be a winning ball club.
Red AuerbachRead
They said you have to use your five best players but I found you win with the five who fit together the best.
Red AuerbachRead
It's not what you tell your players that counts. It's what they hear.
Red AuerbachRead
To a father, when a child dies, the future dies; to a child when a parent dies, the past dies.
Red AuerbachRead
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