High Ten

24Two Gifts

Before heading to Marcus's office, Brian walked the campus, enjoying the September weather. The silence didn't surprise him. He knew how things worked on a Sunday after a loss.

Brian knew the anticipation a coach felt when searching for a win – and the letdown when he didn't find one. Brian found Marcus sitting at his desk.

“Hey buddy,” said Brian.

“Hey, Coach,” responded Marcus, “we were soooo close.”

“That's how this game works,” replied Brian. “One play can make the difference.”

“Yeah,” said Marcus. “Watching the tape doesn't make it easier.”

“It's not supposed to be easier, kid. You're supposed to get better. It's painful to lose. I've had plenty of losses. And that's why I'm here – to continue your coaching ‘education.'”

“I wanted to win that first one,” said Marcus.

“But not the second one? C'mon. A coach wants to win them all. It's learning to deal with it when you don't.”

“Yeah,” sighed Marcus. “I know. I checked out the media's take. I'm already on the chopping block.”

“Well,” said Brian, “there's your first mistake. Don't listen to critics. I saw the game, and not only did you almost beat a Top-25 team, but when you finish grading, you'll find few coaching errors. You're not the first college coach to start out with adversity.”

“Is this supposed to make me feel better?”

“I'm not trying to make you feel better,” replied Brian. “I want you to feel the pain. The sting of a loss can propel you and the team forward. Just know you aren't the first guy to overcome ...