High Ten

15Cor Unum

“Everyone in!” yelled Marcus across the indoor practice field.

As his players huddled around him, Marcus shouted, “Take a knee.”

Once everyone was silent, he began.

“Welcome back and to a new year.” Marcus began. “This time can inspire you to leave old things behind … but it also causes insecurity looking toward new things ahead. My goal today is to remove any of the fears or doubts you might have about our future.”

Marcus paused.

“I won't be the coach keeping secrets from you. And one thing that's no secret is we must win this season! I wouldn't have taken this job if I didn't think we could do it. You may be worried I have a rebuilding plan … you know … bring in my own players, sit the veterans, and give myself three years to have a winning season. Well,” Marcus raised his voice, “stop worrying about that! This isn't a rebuild – this is a return! You probably chose to play here, just like I did, because of the history and tradition of this school. That tradition's about a lot of things, but it's mainly about winning. We're not rebuilding … we're returning to that tradition right now!”

The players were nodding.

“I've watched the film. We've got players here – and we can win this season. Most of you were four-star kids from somewhere, right? From what I've seen, the talent was always here; you just weren't putting it together. Because it's a new year, I want us imagining the future, not pointing fingers at the past. I've heard about your last coach. This is the ...