John Wooden made history several decades ago by becoming one of the most successful basketball coaches of all time. His 10 NCAA national championships in 12 years as coach of the UCLA Bruins cannot be matched, and there may never be a coach that comes anywhere close to this achievement.
Coach Wooden’s success came not only from his use of an amazing system of proven basketball strategy but also from his daily commitment to represent Jesus Christ in all that he did. He exemplified this in the way he treated people, the manner in which he led his teams, and the thoughtful and caring way in which he helped each of his players grow.
He “gripped His savior tight” every day by carrying himself in a manner worthy of His savior, and he also gripped a little metal cross tight in his hand while coaching. A rolled up basketball program was always visible in one hand and unknown to most there was a small cross being held in the other hand. Coach Wooden knew where the ultimate strength in life comes from and he always carried a physical reminder of it with him while coaching.
Are we gripping the cross tight every day?
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