As a young, naive Catholic lad on the ’64-’65 freshman basketball team, I wonder how I would overcome my clumsiness and deficiencies to play a role for the powerhouse Chicago Catholic League Weber High School’s basketball program. It was a struggle to develop the skills necessary to gain the attention of our coaches. I practiced hard, I practiced long after the freshman team departed the court – giving way to the varsity – the likes of……Polizzi, Lubash, Koplitz, Petrucha, Zielinski, Closs and Krzyzewski. All super-stars in my eyes – characters and players to emulate and follow.
On one cold and windy winter afternoon I stayed after practice to work at the end-court basket (with the inner hoop) on any part of my game – needing help in all aspects. As I ran to gather an errant shot a varsity giant stopped the ball and kicked it back my way. "Thanks Mike" was all I could think to say as the junior phenom, Mike Krzyzewski, returned the greeting. He stopped during his practice break and said he had noticed my efforts and offer a tip to improve my acceleration to the hoop. You have to have been a freshman in an upper-classmen world to appreciate the feeling that I had and the pride Mike’s gesture of friendship provided me….I was determined to double my work effort to improve from that point forward. How cool was that – even talking to a freshman – only by someone of confidence and a one who cared for a fellow student – not worried about what others might think (sound familiar).
I went on to assume leadership roles at Weber and improve my weak grades to honor-roll levels. There were a number of student and academic athletes to admire at Weber – Coach K led the way with his devotion, dedication and moral character. It’s no secret that his moral fiber and character have elevated him and all who come in contact with him - in all aspects of life.
God bless you Coach K……….best wishes for continued success with your program. Thanks for all you do to inspire others.
