Coaching Up a Championship Culture

As coaches, we are tasked with the responsibility of impacting the lives of our players and everyone around us.  We are expected to have a positive influence on our players and give them the necessary tools to graduate in order to become great at whatever they do in life.  Coaching is not merely about wins and losses, nor is it about how many sprints we can make our players run.  Instead, coaching is a call to disciple and teach young men or women to be the best that they can possibly be.  The culture that we demonstrate through our words and actions will be the example in which our players will learn to live their lives.  There are three areas that are crucial in evolving a championship culture and we need to consider developing our culture each day. 

1. TRUST – This may be the most difficult character trait to cultivate within our programs.  With factors such as playing time, academics, athletic ability, relationships, etc., it almost takes a magician to establish trust among every member of our programs.  I’m sure everyone has heard the saying, “It takes years to build trust, but only seconds to lose it.”  I think that quote is fairly accurate and we need to take our relationships with our players very seriously.  We also need to make sure that our players are doing things that enable their teammates to trust them.  Kevin Eastman, Vice President of Basketball Operations for the Los Angeles Clippers, made a comment on an Entre Leadership podcast about establishing trust with his NBA players or else he would lose them for two weeks.  Trust needs to be a priority in our programs if we want to have a healthy and championship caliber culture.  Everything we do and say is under a microscope and we need to be aware of the affect our actions/words have on others.

2. RESPONSIBILITY – The ability to hold our players accountable is of the utmost importance, but it is even more important that our players hold each other accountable.  All of us have been irresponsible at some point in our lives and we need to communicate the significance that responsibility has on the overall success of our programs.  If we don't, our players will not learn how to be responsible.  So many young players struggle with responsibility not necessarily because they are lazy, but because they have never been taught how to get things done consistently and on time.  When our players fail to act responsibly we need to come alongside them and disciple them through the process and teach them how to do the right things.  Once we demonstrate how to be responsible and communicate expectations, our players begin to collectively hold each other to higher standards and the fruits of our efforts will begin to show.  When everyone takes care of their responsibilities it communicates and establishes trust.

3. SERVANT LEADERSHIP – Being a servant leader requires humility.  Humility is something that is demonstrated by placing the needs of others before my own.  It isn’t natural to be a servant and it isn’t natural to put others first, but when we make an effort to do the unnatural we see positive impact.  Obviously, as coaches we need to serve our players and lead them in a way that will help them become great men.  The hard part is teaching our players how to serve others and put others first.  Our examples of servant leadership may be the only example that they have ever seen in their lives.  We live in a generation where it’s all about “what can I get?”  If we allow that mindset of selfishness to infiltrate our program, we will never be successful.  Servant leaders are people who always care more about the guy next to him and constantly think of ways to help make them better.  When we decide to serve and help others we will begin to see success through our humble service.  Responsibility and trust are more easily cultivated when everyone in the group has the other person’s best interest at heart. 

Although there are many more characteristics and qualities that make up a great culture, I believe these three are a solid foundation.  A championship culture can only be realized when every member of the program decides to be a “Champion Today.”  They decide to do what they are supposed to be doing and be where they are supposed to be on a daily basis.  Once we start living these habits, we will see positive change within our culture that will eventually lead to success.  When we SERVE – we inspire others to take RESPONSIBILITY.  When we are RESPONSIBLE – we enable others TRUST.  When we TRUST – we desire to SERVE others.  The circle is endless and is a great foundation in coaching up a championship culture!

3 W's of Relationships

In most cases, players have to walk together and work together before they can win together.

Walking relationship - Initiate a walking relationship with your teammates.

This is generally done off the court. What do you know about your teammates? Their families? Their likes and dislikes? Their struggles? The benefits of walking with your teammates include the biblical admonition of "bearing one another's burdens." For you to know how to encourage your teammates, you need to walk with them. Criticism requires no relationship with the one you are targeting, but if you walk with someone, you will be inclined to encourage him rather than criticize him. In addition, those who walk with someone else will also be inclined to pray for him.

Working relationship - Cultivate a working relationship with your teammates.

A walking relationship with teammates facilitates a working relationship with them. This dynamic generally happens in practices, in the weight room, on the track, and wherever else you work together. How much more inclined are we to work hard with our teammates when we first walk with them? Working together builds unity, establishes trust, and defers our own interests to those of the successes of our team. Do you like to go to work? If you say "yes," you like the players around you and are willing to be patient with their weaknesses and embrace their strengths for the benefit of team success.

Winning relationship - establish a winning relationship with your teammates.

Contrary to "bottom line" enthusiasts, the scoreboard is not the end-all in athletics. We are obligated in obedience to "run, that we may obtain"[the prize]; however, many "wins" exist apart from the final score.

Team goals that preclude a winning score are often "small wins" that, in time, accumulate and ultimately translate into wins on the scoreboard. These "small wins" share a common characteristic: teammates. A winning relationship with fellow teammates happens because the walking and the working relationships have already been established and are continually being enriched.

Now that we are in the off-season (on-season), individual workouts take center stage. As you hone your skills, eliminate weaknesses, and strengthen your body during these months, consider what steps you will take to walk and work with your teammates. Have you thought about initiating those first two w’s – walking and working - with your teammates? Imagine what could happen if a team was already walking and working together going into next season! “Small wins” would undoubtedly produce wins on the scoreboard. More importantly, the team would be able to fulfill its true mission better than ever before: to use the platform of athletics in ministry opportunities all around us. And it would be a true team effort!

This article was written by former BJU Bruins Assistant Coach, Larry Hunt.

Remaining Content During the Coaching Carousel of March Madness

Be content.  Every year, right around this time, I begin to dream my biggest dreams.  It seems natural for a basketball coach to do a lot of dreaming during March Madness, doesn't it?  I mean, every night there is a game on television that comes down to the buzzer when coaches & players run around like little kids, filled to the brim with excitement.  I can't help but think about what it will be like when I get to experience those emotions someday.  The emotions of winning a conference championship and earning a birth in the NCAA Tournament.  The emotions of celebrating with young men who worked so hard for so long to achieve something together.  The emotions of climbing a ladder and cutting down a small piece of net that symbolizes you are the best.  The emotions of going into the locker room and realizing that we just accomplished something that very few people ever have the chance to do.  I want to experience that someday!  What coach doesn't?

It's no secret that I want to be a division 1 coach someday.  In fact, I often times hold imaginary timeouts and pregame talks in my living room (when my wife isn't home) preparing myself for that moment when the game or our season is on the line.  As seasons are coming to an end there are so many coaches on the move.  Whether it's a promotion to a new job or getting fired from an old job, the coaching carousel at every level of college basketball is spinning fast this month.  Who will get what job?  Who do I know at that school?  Who do I know that knows someone that knows someone?  How can I break into this business?  Be honest coaches - you all ask those questions trying to figure out how you could land a position.  I'm guilty of it, especially this time of year. But I know that having a mindset of "what's next" isn't always the best one to have and I have learned (and continue to learn) how to deal with those emotions of trying to get the next job.

Currently, I am an assistant coach at Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC.  It's a small school that is in only it's 3rd year of intercollegiate athletics.  I have been here all 3 years and have enjoyed my part in building this program.  I make a decent salary.  I work for a great head coach.  Our staff is wonderful.  Our facilities are some of the best (if not the best) in the state of South Carolina.  But I always find myself at this time of year asking, "what's next?" questioning if I truly am content in my current position.  Why is that?

It's a constant battle to remain content.  I have found that reading through Philippians 4 every March helps me understand God's call for me as a coach.  I would highly recommend reading this regardless of your position, level, or circumstance in coaching.  There are so many great things that Paul encourages us with as he writes.  The first verse that always pops out to me is verse 4.

"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!"

- I'm reminded to find my joy in the Lord, not in my job, salary, or circumstance.

The second verse that always helps me and convicts me as a coach are verses 6-7.  Paul tells us not to worry, but instead to pray and be thankful.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

- I'm reminded that I need to place everything in God's hands.  

Then in verses 8-9 he tells us a list of good things to think on.  If and when we think about these things he encourages us to put them into practice & God's peace will be given to us.  That is so encouraging to me to know that God is on my side.

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.  What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me - practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you."

- I'm reminded that I need to keep my mind focused on things that are going to serve and help others around me.

The next section of the passage (verses 10-20) talk about how God will then provide for us.  I'm always uplifted and rejuvenated after reading this, especially verses 11-13.  The words in these verses make me thankful for a God who cares about me and always has my back.

"Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.  I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound.  In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.  I can do all things through him who strengthens me."

- I'm reminded that even if I want to be coaching at a higher level - I need to be content where God has me because he is shaping me and growing me to become a great coach in the future.  He gives us strength to be content.

It is so easy as a coach to always be looking for the next best thing, the greener pasture.  My challenge that I place on myself is to focus on God and the list that Paul gave us to think about and let things fall into place.  It is so easy to worry or be anxious about moving up the coaching ladder.  Instead, I have learned to focus on being the best I can be in the current position that God has placed me in.  It's not always easy, but it's necessary.  Embrace the current process and do things daily that will continue to make you better.  I'm confident that if God wants me in another position he will open the door, but until that happens I need to continue to be content where I'm at.  I'm thankful that God has placed me at a great university with great people.  

If you are a young coach looking for a job, a current coach looking to move up, or an old coach that may have just been fired - read Philippians 4 and meditate on the truths and promises that God gives us when it comes to being content.  It's powerful and I truly believe that God blesses us when we find contentment in Him!

Happy March Madness.

Who Can Lead?

"Leadership is the ability to get individuals to work together for the common good and the best possible results while at the same time letting them know they did it themselves.

Some people are automatic leaders.  Some can never be leaders.  But many who don't think of themselves as leaders have the potential to become such if they understand the fundamentals of getting individuals to work together."

An excerpt from "Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Court" by John Wooden

Eight Suggestions for Succeeding

If you are wanting to be a great leader and a great coach, the first book you should read is "Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Court" by Coach John Wooden.  This was the first book that I read while in middle school that really ignited the passion for me to coach.  In it, there are so many valuable nuggets that represent wisdom and knowledge of not only basketball, but every aspect of life.  One of the lessons in the book is a list of his "Eight Suggestions for Succeeding" and it reads like this:

1. Fear no opponent. Respect every opponent.

2. Remember, it's the perfection of the smallest details that make big things happen.

3. Keep in mind that hustle makes up for many a mistake.

4. Be more interested in character than reputation.

5. Be quick, but don't hurry.

6. Understand that the harder you work, the more luck you will have.

7. Know that valid self-analysis is crucial for improvement.

8. Remember that there is no substitute for hard work and careful planning.  Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.


Buy this book here.

Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter!

My Shoes, My Game, My Brand

GUEST BLOG

by Larry Hunt

These are all headlines [this past week] in various sports outlets – yahoo, etc.

What do they all have in common?

“Eric Bledsoe's crossover makes Clippers' Jared Cunningham jog off the court, toward the stands”

“Kyrie Irving goes between the legs for sweet assist to Kevin Love”

“Erik Lamela scores absurd rabona goal in Europa League match, invalidates all arguments against him”

“CP3's Sick Fake and Score”

All these headlines glorify an individual; all these headlines sensationalize a professional athlete doing something that is actually not uncommon at all. Why then the headlines?

Maybe words like marketing, branding, and self-centeredness come to mind – or something else that reflects the trend to accentuate self. Many elite players today are more enraptured with themselves and their brand than they are sacrificing individual glory for team success. For them it’s all about fame and fortune, all the while feigning humility and the “us” mentality.

Our players need to guard themselves from these “faux [role] models” who consistently prove over time that it’s really all about “me” rather than “us.” A saturation of this worldly, proud persona, especially through social media channels and online news outlets, will quickly skew a player’s perception toward emulating this behavior on the court. Our Bruins’ games should never be “performances”; rather, games should always be contests that require total team effort.

As a side note - there is room for creative, selfless play. Creativity properly used enhances the action required to deceive the opponent. The basketball court is one place in life where deception is allowed! But let’s not be unnatural or ostentatious in our creativity; the day that “playing to the crowd” supersedes “playing for my team” is the day that we regress to mediocrity at best.

Just some random thoughts . . . thanks for reading!

- Coach Larry Hunt, Assistant Men's Basketball Coach

Remember

It's hard to believe that it's been 13 years since America was attacked on September 11th.  So much has changed within our culture since then.  I still remember where I was, what I was doing, and who I was with on that day.  School was just getting started for the day when my 8th grade teacher, Kurt Rummler, told us that a plane crashed into the World Trade Center.  At first, we all thought it was a little recreational plane and our biggest concern was, "how are we going to trade with the world if our World Trade Center is gone?"  I also had tickets that night to go see the Milwaukee Brewers play the St. Louis Cardinals and I was crushed when I learned that the game was cancelled.  I obviously had no clue what was going on at first, but as the day continued, I would soon learn the magnitude of what happened and how it would effect our everyday lives.  Our country lost 2,977 innocent lives on that day and I don't ever want to forget that.

On Monday, our men's basketball team and students here at Bob Jones University helped set up a 9/11 memorial display on the front of our campus that will remain in place until September 15.  It consists of thousands of flags, 2,977 to be exact.  We placed each flag in the ground and formed the structures of the World Trade Towers and the Pentagon.  As we began there was a lot of laughter and our players were having a fun time helping out.  The more flags we placed in the ground, the more I began to realize that we serve a bigger purpose in doing this.  Each of those flags represented an individual that lost his or her life in the 9/11 attacks.  A father, son, sister, or grandmother.  Every flag now served a significant purpose and created a special connection between a college basketball coach and strangers that mean so much to me.  I hope that all of our players and students that volunteered with that project felt a similar feeling behind what we were doing.  I love my country and I still get emotional when I think about September 11, 2001.  I still get sad thinking about the lives lost.  I still get ticked off thinking about the terrorists behind it all.  I still find myself in disbelief that it all happened.  But the greatest emotion I still feel is pride.  There is no better country in the world that the United States of America. I am grateful to live here.  So I hope that when you drive past the campus of Bob Jones University this week and see thousands of flags in the ground, you remember.

Characteristics of the Right Players

Recruiting season is always fun.  Prospects send countless emails and blow up my inbox, and every other coach's inbox, with proposals and declarations of their extraordinary skills.  It seems as though every time I walk into my office lately, that little red light on my office phone is blinking as if it is trying to tell me something.  When I am at home I can hardly set my phone down without another text or call beckoning for my valuable time.  I am always encouraged by the draw our program has with recruits, but very few of these kids understand what it takes to play at our level.  They don't realize that college basketball is more than media attention and bright lights.  They don't understand that there is a special kind of person that we are looking for and we are not willing to inhibit our culture by making a mistake in recruiting.  

It's not always the recruit's fault, but many of them do not possess the necessary characteristics that we are searching for.  So to make things easier for recruits looking at our program, I wanted to take some time to list some important characteristics that we expect from our players.  I also hope this helps coaches that are trying to build and grow their philosophy when it comes to recruiting.

1. Be Good at Basketball - I know this may seem harsh, but it's true.  I can't tell you how many players send in film and I don't even watch more than two clips because of their obvious lack of skill.   This isn't to say we are looking for perfect players, but we need players who are talented and also have room to grow.  

2. Be Willing to Follow Jesus - I want all of our players to know how important following Jesus is.  It is understandable that not every kid will be at the same place in their journey, however, as a coach I want to help you grow in this area.  All I ask is that you are open minded and willing to change when it comes to Biblical truths.  

3. Be a Man of Integrity - I want players who will look me in the eye and tell me the truth.  I will never judge someone who is willing to admit their mistakes and display that they are willing to fix them.  Forgiveness is the key to lasting relationships.  I expect players to do their best and strive to become godly husbands and fathers someday.  

4. Be a Team Player - I could care less what your stats were in high school.  The only thing I care about is how you treat your teammates and your ability to make each other better.  You must have the ability to stand out while blending in.  We care about our players and expect them to take pride in our TEAM.

5. Be Mentally Tough - If I am watching you play in a game or work out, you need to show me that you can handle adversity.  College basketball provides many opportunities for triumph, but it provides twice as many opportunities for failure.  If you can't show the ability to move on to the "next play" then there is probably not a place for you on our team.  We do not tolerate complainers.

6. Be a Servant-Leader - When I call high school coaches I often ask them several questions about the player.  One of the first things I ask is whether or not their player is a servant leader to others.  If you are willing to help others carry equipment, put basketballs away, sweep the gym floor, etc. then there is a good chance you have a bright future as a college basketball player.

7. Be Responsible - Our head coach always says, "Be where you are supposed to be, doing what you're supposed to be doing."  This seems like an easy task, but young men have a hard time being responsible.  Do the right thing.  If you happen to mess up, go back and read #3.

8. Be a Good Student - If you are responding to texts in class or taking bathroom breaks to call me, do not expect to be signed to play here.  I expect our players to do their best in the classroom and make education a priority in their journey as a student-athlete.  Also, make sure to use good grammar when texting or tweeting a coach.  I won't even finish reading what you have to say if you address me as "Yo bro" or "Wsup homie."

9. Be a Positive Example on Social Media - Twitter, Facebook, & Instagram are the main avenues of communication with today's recruits.  If you are on social media (I recommend that you are) make sure to be positive and mindful with everything you post.  If you are posting pictures of yourself at parties doing something you're not supposed to be doing then you will not play for us.  Make your posts positive and encouraging in nature.  You represent the brand of both yourself and our program.

10. Be a Good Character - Your talent will only take you so far.  You can possess all the talent in the world, but if you don't have good character then you will end up being a failure someday.  Most coaches would rather have extraordinary people with less talent on their team as opposed to poor character people with extraordinary talent.

These are just a few characteristics that usually stand out to coaches, but they are not the only ones.  When it is all said and done, I am looking for kids that want to work hard and do the right thing.  Mistakes are going to happen and everyone will do something stupid at some point in time, but it's how they are willing to respond to those situations that matters.  If you are a player that possesses all the characteristics above, I am happy for the coach that signs you.  I hope that coach is me!

Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter

The Final Four: More Than Meets The Eye

No person can even argue that March Madness is the most wonderful time of the year.  If you disagree with that statement - stop reading right now.  I'm only joking - KEEP READING!  I promise you that this will be worth your time.

As a basketball coach and someone that is a member of the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC), I have the privilege of attending the Final Four every year for their annual convention. Although this convention is intended for professional and personal development, the question that is most often asked to me is, "do you get to go to the games?!"  I understand that it is only natural for people to ask that question when they hear I will be at the Final Four, but I always count it a blessing when I get to inform them that there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the Final Four.

Despite the countless clinics, sessions, parties, dinners, and meetings that the NABC provides, there is also an emphasis on ministry with coaches.  Organizations such as Nations of Coaches, Athletes In Action, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes really do an outstanding job of providing coaches with the most important things that fit their needs.  Whether they know it or not, coaches need Jesus in their programs and they need biblical truths pumped through the hearts of their athletes.  These ministry groups spend countless hours mentoring and training people to help equip coaches with the necessary tools that will change their programs forever.  The sessions and panel discussions that are put on by these ministries are valuable resources for developing a biblical worldview in relation to coaching.

If you ever get a chance to come to a Final Four, or if you are a coach and have never heard of any of these events, I urge you to check them out sometime.  There's no greater experience than building relationships with other coaches that share the same heart beat as you.  They love basketball and everything that comes with it, but ultimately they love Jesus more and desire for their players to know Him.  Coaching is more than X's and O's and the time spent learning how to develop men of character will help make your program a TRUE success.

I am so thankful and appreciative of the people that have invested into my life as a young coach.  While some people view the Final Four as an opportunity to network, find a job, and party with their coaching buddies, I view it as an opportunity to grow in my walk with Jesus Christ and help develop me into a better husband and father.  No vocation influences as many lives as coaching does, and I am blessed to be a part of something that will impact lives forever through the game of basketball.

Some upcoming events to check out if you are in Dallas this weekend:

SATURDAY

FCA Coaches' Luncheon - 12:30 pm | Dallas Ballroom

It's Gametime! - 5:00 pm | Dallas Ballroom

SUNDAY

Coaches' Bible Study - 8:30 am | Press Club

Worship Service - 10:00 am | Dallas Ballroom

Building Relationships

Building relationships are crucial in any job, but they are extremely important in the realm of coaching.  Without true relationships between a coach/player, coach/AD, coach/media, or coach/administration, there will not be any trust. Relationships are built on the foundation of trust and that trust can only be built by loving and being committed to serve others.

As a young coach, I am learning more daily how to become a better leader and how to enhance my relationships with the people I surround myself with.  I like to believe that one of my strengths as a coach is my ability to genuinely love others and make them feel comfortable talking to me.  I'm not a talkative person by nature, but God has given me the unique ability to relate to people and gain their trust.  I look forward to the opportunities I am given to impact others simply by showing an interest in something they love.

Although many relationships are developed by servant leadership and displaying love towards someone, more relationships are maintained through tough love.  In my limited experience as a coach I have had to work with people in ways which they do not like.  College athletes, especially basketball players, do not typically like being told that they are wrong.  Many coaches will deal with an issue like this in one of two ways. 1) They will lash out at the player by yelling and insisting that they are right, or 2) They will give in to the player and let him do what he wants, even though the coach knows it will not make him a better person.  In my opinion, neither of those tactics is the wise way to handle players.  If we truly desire to build relationships with our players we must love them first.  We need to tell them things that they don't want to hear and love them enough to show them how they can make themselves a better player and person.

There are three simple acts that we must contribute to if we truly want to build successful relationships.  The three are:

1. Be Available - As a coach this could simply be having an open door policy for a player to come into your office and talk about life.  It could also be something such as offering a helping hand anytime they may need it.  Reach out to others and offer your talent/knowledge to make them better. (1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 10:24; Ephesians 4:12)

2. Listen More - Sometimes as coaches we feel that we need to talk, talk, talk.  There are times when the best thing for our team is to just listen to our players.  Listen for tips to run a play better.  Ask them to give insight on team functions and core values.  Asking questions and listening to your players is such a powerful way to build trust and ultimately build lasting relationships. (James 1:19; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 18:13)

3. Be Generous - Do something for someone without expecting anything in return.  Coaches and athletes alike tend to be very stubborn and selfish people, well at least if they are like me!  It is human nature to look out for yourself when really we should be looking to do something for another person.  Seek out opportunities to serve and make someone else's life better. (Acts 20:35; Matthew 6:21; 1 Corinthians 9:14)

"The heart of a coach - at least my heart - is the relationship you have with players." - Coach Dale Brown

"The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people." - Theodore Roosevelt

Land The Plane Safely - Part II

A couple years ago, Brendan Suhr gave us a list of his Top 10 Chuck "Dalyisms."  There were many great quotes on his list, but there was one that stuck out to me more than the others.  The quote by Coach Chuck Daly was,

"Coaching is like flying an airplane.  There is going to be a lot of turbulence, but your job is to land the plane safely."  

It's that time of the season again when teams are finding out who they really are.  When you look at teams this year like Kansas, Duke, and Arizona you see teams filled with young players that are beginning to mesh together and play their best basketball of the season.  On the other hand, you have teams like Oklahoma State that seem to be going further and further down the hill as days go by.  It is interesting to see the coaches of these teams handle success and failure in very different manners, but one thing is for sure: They all are beginning their descent towards the NCAA Tournament and their #1 goal is to "land the plane safely."

Last season (our first season with a basketball program) we finished with a record of 6-24, losing in the first round of our conference tournament.  Any time we could come out and compete last year was a victory!  This season is another chapter in our story.  Our team has had much success this year, but we have also faced adversity on many occasions.  As of today, we are 12-13 and have shown much improvement from last year, but we definitely are not satisfied with being a .500 team.  There have been many games this year that we should have won, but due to some adversity and friction within our team we were unable to pull out the W.  As a coaching staff we knew that our responsibility was to get us back onto the right track and put our guys in the best possible situation to succeed.  Our players have responded with amazing attitudes and have really bought in to what we are doing now!  They understand the importance of taking care of the "little things" both on and off the court.  With only five regular season games left before our conference tournament, our staff and players need to understand the importance of "landing the plane safely."  If we are unable to have a proper descent into the runway (positive momentum going into tournament time) then we will not be able to land the plane safely (make a run in the tournament).  Positive attitudes along with a lot of energy and effort will be the determining factor in the remainder of our flight!

You can click here to read a previous blog post that I wrote two years ago on this topic.

Coach Andrew Wingreen - @CoachWingreen

Coach Brendan Suhr - @brendansuhr

Running Down A Dream

Opportunities present themselves to us each and everyday.

But often we fail to cease them with everything we have.

They come and go as often as we blink our tempted eyes.

We many times forget that we’re running down a dream.

We lay in bed each day and night, just thinking to ourselves,

How sweet the future will be when we get to where we’re going.

People’s influence in our everyday lives is so very important,

They may have significant impact while we’re running down a dream.

Connections often are broken, but many times are a seekers best friend.

We need to be go-getters in this race that we run so swiftly,

Because if we only sit back and wait for wants to fall into our lap,

We will fail in every attempt of running down a dream.

Thinking to the future that lies so mysteriously ahead of us,

We often get views of things that we tell our mind it’s impossible.

But go out and pursue, and cease every moment of everyday,

And you will see that you are closer than you think to running down a dream.

For every door that closes, they say that another door always opens.

We need to believe that truth, and know that God will also open windows,

For multiple choices of hunting down that thrilling passion,

That will benefit in your endeavor of running down a dream.

Don’t be afraid to start a conversation with a well-known famous stranger,

For he or she is excited to share what they have learned in their life also.

They’ve traveled down the same paths that you are trudging this present day,

And they realize the desire in your heart of the same passion of running down a dream.

The journey that you set your feet on is going to be full of ups and it’s share of downs,

But always find the positives in every fault that opens up in your way.

Find a way around it, over it, or even better yet, through it,

And set your eyes straight forward on the ultimate goal of running down a dream.

Victory will taste so sweet when at the end of your path you reach the inn.

The triumph over the enemies and haters will feel so sensational.

Stay focused on the prize and keep the ever burning passion alive inside your soul,

And you will enjoy success in accomplishing the task of running down a dream!

@CoachWingreen

T.R.U.S.T.

T - THINK on things above (Colossians 3:2)

R - REST in Him only (Psalm 62)

U - UNDERSTAND that we cannot lean on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6)

S - SECURITY in His perfect plan (Romans 8:14-15)

T - THANK Him always (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

TRUST!

Core Values

Core values are essential in any group or organization and they play a crucial role in accomplishing the overall vision and mission.  Often times when you think of a successful company or team there are specific words that come to mind that portray that specific group.  Our men's basketball program at Bob Jones University has made the effort to promote certain core values to build our foundation upon.  Coach Neal Ring and our staff spent a lengthy amount of time praying and talking through these values and came up with a "wheel" that provides a visual illustration to our players of how we expect them to become successful.  There are three parts to this "wheel" and they are our mission, our core values, and our vision.  Everything we do begins with a single heartbeat, one that every member of our program must buy into in order to attain our overall vision. 

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission statement is at the center of the "wheel" and it reads,

"Bruins' men's basketball exists to develop student athletes who glorify God and to prepare them to always LIVE CHRIST." 

 

We believe that no matter what we are trying to accomplish from a basketball perspective, it will have no effect unless we are doing it for a bigger purpose.  What is our bigger purpose?  It is to glorify God and live Christ.  If we are simply coming to the gym every day in hopes to win games and get the ladies we have missed our true calling.  Our purpose is so much greater that the excitement, the wins/losses, and the cool gear.  We want to be used of God to impact lives for eternity through the game of basketball.  This sounds well and good, but simply stating this is not enough.  We need to have a plan of action and that is found in our core values.

 

CORE VALUES

 

Our core values are the pieces of the puzzle that we must live out if we hope to accomplish our vision.  There are four main values that we stress to our program.

 

1. Passion - First and foremost we need to have a passion.  We need a passion for Jesus Christ and we need a passion for the game of basketball.  We need to be willing to put the required work into both of those aspects and be committed to growing consistently in them.  A passion for Jesus can be cultivated through reading his Word and seeking him in every area of your life.   When you read the Scriptures, God opens your heart to amazing things and ignites a passion to know Him.  You will be amazed how God can use you when you are actively and consistently searching for him!  A passion for basketball will be stirred when you see the fruits of your hard work.  Early mornings in the weight room, boot camp conditioning, and grueling workouts sometimes are difficult, but once you step on the court in front of thousands of screaming fans, it all becomes worth it!  Galatians 2:20

 

2. Integrity - We expect our members to be honest and trustworthy in every relationship they have.  These values need to be mutual and we will treat everyone the same way we wish to be treated.  It's the Golden Rule!  If you want to be treated well, then treat others well!  Most people do not like being lied to and they hate when someone doesn't follow through, so make sure to value everyone in all things.  The world says that the 'cool' thing to do is lie, cheat and steal, but that is totally opposite of what the Bible says.  Instead, God calls us to live a life saturated with high character.  We are born sinners and sin is a daily struggle, so please don't think it's easy to do the right thing.  But do know that with God's grace all things are possible and he will give you the strength and the desire to do what is honorable!  Luke 6:31; Philippians 4:8

 

3. Humility - Athletes are glorified in this world and sometimes they expect to be treated in such a way.  However, we have a platform to make an impact and we must display humility.  We do this by being selfless, having a grateful spirit, and acting out with servant-leadership.  When I was a camp coach at the University of Minnesota, Tubby Smith left a lasting impression of humility on me.  We were in the cafeteria when one of the campers spilled his food tray all over the floor.  From a distance I noticed all of the campers and coaches staring at this kid and some were even laughing and pointing at him.  Nobody stopped to help him.  What I didn't see was that Coach Smith had immediately gone to get paper towels and he was the first one to help.  He smiled at this kid and told him it was OK, got down on his hands and knees and began to clean up this camper's mess.  As a young coach I was in awe that a man such as Coach Smith would humble himself to serve others.  The same goes for Jesus.  He came to this world not to be served, but to serve others.  There are so many examples in the Bible about Jesus providing food, healing the sick, and just being there to share the gospel with anyone he possibly could.  He was always on the lookout to serve others and he called us to do the same.  True leadership is done through serving others.  Mark 10:45

 

4. Collective Responsibility - We are always holding each other accountable.  There is a mutual support among coaches, players, managers, and support staff.  There is no whining, complaining, and no making excuses.  The Bible says we sharpen each other just as iron sharpens iron.  A team is a powerful force and when every person is looking out for the best interest of the others, amazing things can happen.  We can cultivate this by holding players accountable for their class attendance, grades, and relationships.  If you see your teammate sleeping in class or texting during a lecture, call him out in a biblical way!  More importantly keep each other focused on reading the Word.  The most important thing we can do as a coach is to disciple our players and make sure they are doing what needs to be done to know God.  Teammates need to watch out for each other and make sure others are not doing something they shouldn't be doing such as drinking alcohol, being involved in a immoral relationship, or rebelling against authority.  When a team comes together and supports one another, there is no telling what they can accomplish!  We want our players to graduate and become godly husbands and fathers, not just good basketball players.  Proverbs 27:17

 

When these four values are lived out on a daily basis, success becomes a bi-product of the process.  If we can live out these values each and every day, we believe that they will ultimately allow us to carry out our overall vision.

 

VISION STATEMENT

 

Our vision statement is our end goal.  It is where we want to be what we want to accomplish.  We can do this by carrying out our core values and staying focused on our mission.  Our vision statement reads,

 

"We view basketball as a potent platform for ministry in this present age.  To maximize this platform, we must prepare to compete against each opponent to earn their respect; with this respect we earn the opportunity for testimony of Christ."

 

God calls us to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ and to disciple others to become more like him and do the same.  Basketball is only a tool that God has given us to carry out the great commission (Matthew 28:16-20).  As a program, we want others to come to know Jesus Christ and seek to glorify him.  Of course we want to compete at the highest levels and win championships, but ultimately we are only doing that so that Jesus Christ will become famous!  Here is a look at what our "wheel" looks like:

 

 

Follow the BJU Bruins Men's Basketball team at the following:

 

Twitter - @BJUBruins

Instagram - @BJUBruins

Facebook - Bob Jones University Bruins

Online - www.BJUBruins.com

 

 

 

 



 

Follow Me

Coaching is leadership, and leadership is influence.  Therefore, coaching is influence.  Our players will be influenced by many things throughout their lives, so it is vital that we make a positive impact on them while we have the opportunity.  Billy Graham once said, "One coach will impact more young people in a year than the average person does in a lifetime."  Knowing the influence we possess as coaches, we need to ask ourselves regularly how we are impacting the lives of our players.  We can simply yell, scream, and tell them what to do, or we can just sit back and let them figure it out on their own.  Either way, the players we coach will be influenced by our leadership.  We can win every game on our schedule and tell our players they are successful, or we can lose every game and make them feel worthless.  How we lead our players is crucial because they will remember our influence for the rest of their lives.  But if coaches are supposed to lead and players are supposed to follow, who is leading the coaches?

Matthew 16:24-27 says, "Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.  For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.  For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life?  Or what shall a man give in return for his life?  For the Son of Man is going to come with this angels in the glory of the Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done.""

The greatest coach of all-time was Jesus Christ, and his example is the one we as coaches should let influence our lives.  If we can deny ourselves daily of our pride, selfishness, greed, and worldly ambition, then Jesus calls us to take up our cross and follow him.  Matthew makes it clear that following Jesus is no easy task.  It is not a life that will necessarily lead to health or wealth.  It is not a life that will necessarily lead to comfort.  Jesus does promise, however, that it will be worth it.  Sometimes as coaches we believe we can figure it all out on our own.  We think that winning will come if only we work harder, watch one more game film, make one more phone call, or practice a little bit longer.  We are driven by the lie that says we can achieve success on our own power and strength.  The truth is that we can only be satisfied if we deny our self, take up our cross and follow Jesus.  Our players are hungry for leadership, so let's make sure we are feeding them influence from the greatest leader of all-time, Jesus!

Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter!

The Victory Is His

1 Chronicles 29:11-13 reads, "Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name." (ESV)

Dictionary.com defines "Victory" as, 

vic·to·ry [vik-tuh-ree, vik-tree]

1. a success or triumph over an enemy in battle or war.

2. an engagement ending in such triumph.

3. the ultimate and decisive superiority in any battle or contest.

Although we often associate the term 'victory' with the sports arena, the true victory was won at the cross of Jesus Christ.  I have been assessing myself as a coach and asking myself the question, "why do you coach?"  Obviously there is a passion and desire to win championships, develop the skills of my players, and to reach the highest level of success that is possible.  But if the wins, success, and reputation among my peers is the only place I'm finding victory, then I have truly lost.  When I break it down to the fundamentals, there really are only three reasons I coach and they are the only things that will make an impact for eternity.

1. Discipleship within a basketball program is key.  I want to disciple my players to the best of my ability to ensure that they are growing in their walks with Jesus and that they are winning off the court as well as on the court.  It is also very important that I am being a disciple to the coaching staff around me.  One area that is often forgotten though, is the fact that I need to be discipled as well.  If no one is coaching the coaches, then we are in trouble. (Matthew 28:19)

2. Proclaiming the gospel to the nations is essential.  Throughout the season it is vital to not only be visible in the community, but also to have a presence in the world.  As coaches, we ought to make it a priority to get our teams overseas to the mission field where the gospel is scarce.  If we aren't telling non-believers about Jesus, then we are failing in our call as coaches and as human beings. (Matthew 5:16)

3. Glorifying Jesus Christ in all we do is the umbrella over it all.  We were put here on this earth by a marvelous Creator and he deserves all the praise we have to offer.  God the Father sent his only son, Jesus Christ, to die on a cross for our sin, rise up from the grave, and give us victory.  He gave us victory because he won the battle over sin.  He gave us victory because he sits triumphantly at the right hand of God the Father.  (1 Corinthians 10:31)

It was the ultimate sacrifice and according to the Bible and the definition given to us by Dictionary.com, we really do have victory in Jesus!  We can worship Jesus by the way we coach, the way we live, and by the legacy we leave.  Next time you think about victory and winning a championship, check your intentions and make sure that you are doing everything for the glory of God!

Follow @CoachWingreen on Twitter!

Becoming a Bruin

Well, it feels like the past few months have been a roller coaster ride, as I've been trying to find a coaching position for this upcoming season.  I'm very excited to announce that God has opened a door for me to coach at NCCAA DI, Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC.  My young coaching career has been filled with mostly part-time and volunteer positions, so I am extremely thankful for my first "full-time" position where my job is to get paid to coach basketball!  How cool is that?!

My wife and I have spent numerous hours praying that the right position would open up, and it has.  I am looking forward to working with a great head coach in Neal Ring and being part of BJU's inaugural season of intercollegiate athletics.  I didn't think that when Coach Ring first talked to me about coming to BJU it would actually happen.  I had a lot of skepticism and was doubtful about the whole situation, but I guess good things happen when you talk to coaches at the Final Four!

I look forward to being part of a program where Jesus Christ is lifted high and lives will be impacted for the Kingdom of God.  Anyone who knows me understands my passion for basketball and my desire to use the game to proclaim the gospel message of Jesus.  I am so thankful for the opportunity to coach at an institution where I can do that.  I am also grateful for my mentors who have discipled me along the way and continue to make huge impacts in my life.  Coach Peter Wehry, Coach Paul Whitt, and Wayne Simien (there are many more coaches, too!) have been some of my greatest coaching role models and I appreciate everything they do.  I am pumped up to begin work as a Bruin and I am ecstatic to see the awesome things God does with our basketball team!

Land the Plane Safely

“Coaching is like flying an airplane, there is going to be a lot of turbulence, but your job is to land the plane safely." 


I love this #4 posting in "Brendan Suhr's Top 10 Chuck Daly "Dalyisms."  I feel like this is the point in the season when this quote might really hit home.  Some coaches have endured tough seasons, and others have experienced their best, but no matter which one is you, it is time to land the plane.  It is time to finish strong.  Hopefully you've kept your composure and stayed focused throughout the season.  Stay strong. Stay committed.  Rise Up.

“Coaching is like flying an airplane, there is going to be a lot of turbulence, but your job is to land the plane safely.” During the season, there are going to be a lot of ups and downs, but as the coach you have to understand you have to remain calm and poised and remember the goals that you have established for the team. On the road to each Championship season, we had major turmoil occur, but Chuck landed the plane safely.

If you have not signed up for the Coaching U newsletter...do it now at www.coachingulive.com!!  Also, make sure you follow these brilliant basketball minds on Twitter @Coaching_U @brendansuhr @KevinEastman @AlanStein ...and you can follow me, too! @CoachWingreen

Wear Red

Friday, February 3rd is National Wear Red Day^®.  The American Heart Association and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have asked everyone to wear Red in support of heart health awareness.  I am privileged to have the opportunity to speak to a group of high school students Friday night at a basketball game in Burlington, WI.  It happens to be my old high school, so it should be fun.  My topic is, "The heart of the matter is always the matter of the heart."  I am excited to share my story and how heart disease has influenced my life.  From an early age, basketball was my "true love."  I was one of those kids that was always in the driveway working on my game.  It didn't matter whether it was 20 degrees and snowing, or if it was midnight and the neighbors (or my parents) were sleeping.  If the basketball got icy and flat, I would have two more in the rotation...waiting in the warm water of the bathtub.  I always had to be getting better.  Unfortunately, heart disease took away my ability to play basketball competitively.  Adversity came, and bitterness settled in.  It took many years before I was truly able to embrace the situation and turn it into a positive blessing.  Once I realized this setback was all a part of God's sovereign plan, I began to see ways in which I could use it to impact others.  My love and passion for coaching is that avenue, and I want to use it all to glorify Jesus.  If having a heart disease allows me to share the gospel message of what Jesus Christ did on the cross for me, then it is all worth it.  "The heart of the matter is always the matter of the heart." Wear Red this Friday!

Rise Up - Part II

RISE UP!  This is truly a calling from God.  And don’t be fooled, this isn’t some insignificant calling.  This is big time.  As we embrace the titles of husband/father to our families, leaders in the church, and coach/mentor to our players, RISING UP needs to carry a significant meaning to us.  The fact of the matter is that the greatest coach of all-time, Jesus Christ, knew the true definition of RISING UP.  He was sent to this earth, fully God and fully man, for one reason and one reason only.   His purpose: to take our punishment for our sin.  “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.  For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” – John 3:16-17.  The love Jesus had for us put him on the cross to take the punishment that we deserved.  Three days later, there was an empty tomb.  Jesus literally and physically fulfilled the calling of his Father to RISE UP!  And by doing so, we were made alive in Christ!

We are now called to live in the image of God, but how do we do that?  What do we need to focus on every day in order to RISE UP?  Ephesians 5:13-14 says, “But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light.  Therefore it says, ‘Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.’”  Because Jesus shined his light on us, the ability to RISE UP was made possible.  

There are three aims that we need to focus on in order to RISE UP successfully.  

First, we commit to MAKE THE BEST USE OF OUR TIME (Ephesians 5:15-17).  Legendary coach, Jim Valvano once said, “There are 86,400 seconds in a day.  It’s up to you to decide what to do with them.”  Scripture commands us to not be fools, but instead “…understand what the will of the Lord is.”  God has called us to RISE UP, and we cannot accomplish that if we waste our lives by giving in to our flesh.  We are called to greatness and we need to spend our time doing things that will last for eternity. Instead of turning on the TV when you get home, talk to your wife and play with your kids.  In place of your free time on the internet, take that time to invest in the lives of your family or players.  “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD has risen upon you.” – Isaiah 60:1

Secondly, we commit to HAVE A CLEAR MIND, FILLED BY THE SPIRIT (Ephesians 5:18-19).  Keep a clear head.  Do not give in to the pressure.  This verse specifically condemns drunkenness and the effects it has on our minds, but there are many more things that can mess with our clearness of mind.  Adversity will present itself, but how you respond to that adversity will determine what you’re made of.  Make prayer a daily routine and ask the Lord for guidance and direction with every decision you will have to make throughout the day.  You never know when you will have to draw up that last second play in crunch time.  Keep a clear head, give all your heart to Jesus, and the opportunity to RISE UP will be right there waiting for you.

Lastly, we commit to GIVE ALL THE GLORY TO JESUS CHRIST (Ephesians 5:20-21).  I firmly believe that God wants us to RISE UP in everything we do.  He is our biggest fan.  What is your response when someone is cheering for you?  You want to please them!  As God gives us multiple opportunities to RISE UP, all he wants from us is a thankful heart and a motivation to direct all the glory to him.  Remember that victorious display Jesus put on when he conquered death at the cross?  There was urgency for mankind’s need of a Savior.  Jesus gave us that saving grace on the cross.  Because of the life Christ has given us, we can RISE UP to anything we are called to do!  I am so thankful for all the blessings God has placed in my life and my only desire is to live for His glory!  When your only purpose is to give God the ultimate glory in everything you do, there is no other option than to answer the call, RISE UP!  

“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”

“Rise up and let your light shine.  A city on a hill cannot hide!”

 This is a follow up post to the original post "Rise Up"