Thursday, December 22, 2011

Time for Reflection

As the year comes to a close, it's always a great opportunity to reflect on where you've been, where you are and where you want to go in the New Year.
We have ample opportunity to evaluate our surroundings, evaluate others and even evaluate our services or business that we are a part.  But how often do you ever evaluate your self?

Below are a list of statements in which you can do your own Self-Evaluation.  A chance for you to look in the mirror and see what kind of leader you are.  I would recommend using this scale (1=never, 2=rarely, 3=sometimes, 4=regularly, 5=all the time).  I also encourage you to write a number next to the statement, this way you're telling yourself where you are and giving yourself and opportunity to grow to where you want to be.

* I maintain a consistent positive attitude.
* I embrace change as opportunity.
* I deploy courage.
* I take risks.
* I listen with the intent to understand.
* I communicate to be understood.
* I delegate and empower others.
* I understand others.
* I understand myself.
* I understand myself.
* I understand my situation.
* I am committed to being my best.
* I administer with excellence.
* I am able to recruit the best people.
* I hire the best people.
* I retain the best people.
* I train everyone and myself..
* I consistently motivate my team.
* I consistently inspire my team.
* I lead by example.

Now, if you've written a number next to each of those statements, total the score and take a look at your Leadership Scorecard.

85-95  You are the leader I want to be taken to. 
75-84  You are a good leader.
67-74  You're a leader, slightly out of focus.
59-66  You're leading, but you lack high level skills.
40-58  You're struggling to lead.

This Leadership Self-Evaluation was provided by Jeffrey Gitomer and you can access a PDF version of this test to post where you can see it every day,  go to http://www.gitomer.com/ and enter the word LEADER TEST in the GitBit box.

I wish everyone a Happy New Year & Go Lions!
JSanford

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Congratulations!

I want to take this moment to congratulate our student-athlete, coaches and fans of Gahanna Lincoln High School for a tremendous Fall athletic season.  We had the great opportunity to watch our programs flourish this fall in all of our sports.

Girls Cross Country - won their first ever OCC Championship, qualified for the Regional Championships as a team for the first time ever as well.
Boys Soccer - captured their 8th consecutive OCC Title and finished as District Runners-Up
Girls Golf - won the OCC Championship, finished as District Runners-Up and qualified for the OHSAA State Championships as a team for the first time ever.
Girls Soccer - won the OCC Championship, District Championship - the programs first District title in the history of the program.
Football - bounced back after a 3 year absence in the State Play-offs, qualifying for the state playoffs, won their Regional Quarterfinal game before an eventual loss in the Regional Semifinal.

To all of our Fall programs, congratulations on a successful campaign and we thank you for allowing this community to share in your success along the way.  We want to express a special thanks to Head Boys Soccer Coach, Dwayne Marshall - who after 15 years leading our program is stepping down.  Coach Marshall has guided and directed this program to the following accomplishments:

Gahanna Lincoln Boys Soccer2009 State Champions
2011, 10, 09, 08, 07, 06, 05, 04, 98, OCC Champions
2006 State Poll Champions
2009 Regional Champions
2010, 05 Regional Runner-up
2006 Regional Semi-Finalist
2010, 09, 06, 05 District Champions
2011, 02, 00, 99 District Runner up
2011, 10, 09, 08, 07, 06, 05, 04, 02, 00, 99 Sectional Champions
2011 Rank #27 in the nation - Preseason by ESPNRise top 50
2010 Rank #1 in the nation - Preseason by ESPNRise top 50
2009 Rank #2 in the nation by ESPNRise top 50
2009 Rank #4 in the nation by NSCAA top 25
2009 Rank #1 in the Region by NSCAA top 15
2010, 09, 08 High School Team Academic Award Winner
2009 Central Ohio Boys Team Excellence in Sportsmanship Award
Congratulations Coach Marshall and thank you for leading our young men!
Go Lions!

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Encouragement! Yeah!

"The way you would encourage a one-year old to walk is the same way you need to encourage your people to succeed, to achieve, and to win." - Jeffrey Gitomer

That be the case, there was alot of encouragement from coaches, parents, the Gahanna community and even player to player for what was, and has yet to be accomplished this fall.  The Gahanna Lincoln Athletic teams have certainly responded to all of your encouragement this season and are on the cusp of Championship successes never before achieved in Gahanna Athletic History.

The Boys Soccer team has captured their 8th consecutive OCC Championship and poised to extend their success in the post-season.

The Girls Soccer team won the OCC Championship after having never beaten Pickerington North since the school opened.  They too, are looking for a deep run in the state tournament.

Girls Golf captured another OCC title and continued their outstanding play into the tournament, becoming the first Girls Golf Team in the history of Gahanna Lincoln to qualify as a team to the OHSAA State Championships - to be played on October 21 & 22 at The Ohio State University Gray Course.  The ladies were one of only 2 teams in Central Ohio to qualify as a team, eclipsing the likes of historical golf powers; Dublin Coffman, Upper Arlington, Pickerington and others.  The "encouragement" was clearing shown on the #7 tee at Bent Tree, when Leah Deagle - embraced and encouraged fellow teammate Sierra Everson to continue the grind, despite an off day for the Lions #1 player.  That encouragement certainly made a difference!

The Lions Football team is off to a 5-2 start and eyeing a long awaited return trip to the post-season.

And finally, the Girls Cross Country team could use your encouragement this Saturday, October 15th 11:00am at Hilliard Bradley High School, as they compete for their First Ever OCC Championship in the long history of this program.

We are thrilled with the continued support from our parents, coaches and community.  Your spirit and Encouragement" means the world to our student-athletes and coaches.

Go Lions!
JSanford

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

"Sorry Dude"

I feel compelled to share an email that was sent to our Gahanna Lincoln Principal.  It's a powerful testimony of our students, parents, staff and community.  I hope you enjoy as much as I did...

Dear Mr. Carter,
          For the past 17 years I have enjoyed watching the Gahanna Lincoln Lions Football team and Marching Band on Friday nights. I first started attending the games when I was a youth pastor in town. Now my ministry is to students in the Westerville School District, but I still  bring my three year old son to the Gahanna games to cheer on the Lions. I know that most often  principals only receive letters and emails from community members when there is something to complain about, so I wanted to make sure I share my thoughts about how great of an environment the Lions Football Games are for families. 
In my career, I have been to countless high school football games in many different locations around Ohio. There has been no better environment than what we’ve found at Gahanna.  I have found the students to be polite and aware of people around them. I have been to other stadiums where the students seems to oblivious and even rude. The words “excuse me” seemed to fall on deaf ears of the students  and they just stand there. That is not the case in Gahanna, in fact a few weeks back I was taking my son to the restroom during the Gahanna game and as we navigated through the students between the stands and the restrooms, a middle school boy stepped back in the group he was talking with and lightly bumped into my son. He immediately turned around, apologized to me and then bent down and said “sorry dude” to my son. I was very impressed!
It doesn’t stop there though…We are trying to teach my son to be respectful during the Alma Mater and the Star Spangled Banner and he notices what other people are doing around him. When we are at Gahanna games we tend to sit near the student section, and it’s a breath of fresh air to see the students respect those moments and the band while they play.
Finally I want to commend you and the staff of Gahanna Lincoln for the obvious presence at the games. It makes it a much better environment to have your family at when you know that there are teachers, staff, and police on the premise to help keep the students in check. As a long –time Gahanna resident I am impressed!

I am proud to be a member of the Gahanna Community and I am pleased to know that this will be the environment that my son will grow up in! Thank you again!        

Friday, September 16, 2011

Colin Powell's Rules

1). It ain't as bad as you think.  It will look better in the morning.
2). Get mad, then get over it.
3). Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls,   your ego goes with it.
4). It can be done!
5). Be careful what you choose.  You may get it.
6). Don't let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.
7). You can't make someone else's choices.  You shouldn't let someone else make yours.
8). Check small things.
9). Share Credit.
10). Remain clam.  Be kind.
11). Have a vision.  Be demanding.
12). Don't take counsel of your fears or naysayers.
13). Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

"The Janitor"

Six Directives from the book "The Janitor" - great, quick, little read by the way.

1) Recharge vs Discharge - Find a hobby, workout or regimented plan that you can involve yourself to Recharge your batteries.  For some, this may be reading a book, running, exercising or even working on crafts or hobby of sorts.  It is important to Recharge, rather than Discharge all your frustrations, anxieties or concerns on those around you.

2) View Family as a Blessing, Not a Responsibility - Your family truly is a blessing, entrusted to you; not a responsibility that you have to just deal with - like it's your job.  The fact that those in your family are a Blessing, should encourage you to take time to be with them, meaningful, passionate and significant moments of time to be with family.  Have you ever been with someone, but they were glued to their Blackberry, yet trying to have a conversation?  Not very exciting right?  Well, what do your children, spouse or parents feel like when you're around them?  Are you engaged in the conversation?  Or are you thinking about that next phone call, email or meeting? 

3) Pray; Don't Pout - What is pouting going to get you?  Despite what might have happened when you were 3 or 4 yrs old, that strategy doesn't necessarily work anymore.  If you don't believe me, the next time you're looking for that promotion, position or for your spouse or parents to agree with you; throw yourself on the ground kicking and screaming.  I'd actually like to see that - let me know how that works out for you.

4) Pass it Around - You have experienced life; the successes and defeats; love and the heartbreak; financial freedom and the inability to make ends meet.  You have learned from others that passed their knowledge, understanding and compassion on to you.  We must all understand that for this world, your world, we have a responsibility to pass that knowledge on to others.

5) Don't Spend; Invest! - This is not solely for financial consideration.  But a lifestyle change of investing yourself in others, family and those around you.  Don't merely "Spend" time, but invest that time wisely, meaningfully and with the care and consideration that you would to grow a nest egg for both the short and long term.

6) Leave a Legacy! - What do you want your Legacy to be?  What do you want people to remember you for?  How are your kids, players, coworkers or friends going to be talking about you when you're gone?  Better yet, how are they going to be talking about you next week, month or year?  See a legacy doesn't have to be something that is thought about or discussed after someone has passed on.  A legacy is what you are planning for and creating everyday.  So, leave your legacy with people the moment they depart your company.  Have those walk away from you saying "Wow, that guy or gal is making a difference; making it matter; or has an attitude that I need to have."

"The Janitor" is a quick and meaningful book.  Pick it up, you won't put it down.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Gahanna Lincoln Athletics

Another great year for Gahanna Lincoln Athletics.  The 2010-11 athletic seasons have officially come to a close and the highlights were plenty.  We started the year with another run by our Boys Soccer team only to be upended in the Regional.  The winter seasons continued the momentum with the Girls and Boys Basketball team making deep runs into the tournament with District titles and boys losing in the Regional - while the Boys Bowling Team made history as they qualified for the State Championships.  Then Spring came and the programs did not disappoint.  Baseball and Softball qualified for the Regional after winning the Districts and Softball made a repeat trip to the State Championship game only to fall short to Hoover 4-2 in the final.  Jake Blankenship has been rewriting the State Record books in the Pole Vault reaching a height of 17' and winning the State Title as a junior.  He's tied the State Record set this year, set the state meet record and looks to vault to new heights his senior year.  Lindsay Brim was state runner up in the long jump, but unfortunately for us will be relocating to Texas to finish her high school career.

Needless to say, we had a tremendous run this year and look for even great things in the 2011-12 school year.  Our athletes and coaches would love to see you out at an event this coming year.  See you in August.

Finally, have to get this plug in, if you're interested in supporting these programs and having a little fun while doing so, consider joining us on July 5th 12:00 at Jefferson Country Club for the Gahanna Lincoln Athletics Golf Outing.  Your support benefits each of our programs.
Thanks and Go Lions!
JSanford

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

"New" Gahanna Lincoln Athletics Website - Template

We are launching a "New" Gahanna Lincoln Athletics website in July 2011.  Working through the details with our new provider iPlanet Global (they do great work).  Check out the template and let me know what you think.

If you're interested in advertising packages, please contact me.  Great opportunity to reach thousands of athletes, parents, fans and the community. 

Go Lions!

Friday, April 29, 2011

The Philosophy of Lion Pride

The Lion family is known as a Pride.  It consists of 15 - 25 Lions, none more dominant than the other.  A select few of the Pride do all the hunting while they raise and protect the young and ensure the survival of the Pride.  They hunt at night as a unit and they hunt the big game - bobcats, wild boar and wildcats - in order to feed the entire Pride.  While pursuing their prey the Pride will encircle its target as a few of the younger members approach from down wind in order to drive the prey into a waiting trap.  Coincidentally, in some cases researchers have identified "Centers" and 'Wings" in Lion hunting groups.  The wings chase the prey to the centers who would then capture the prey and in turn, bring it back to the Pride allowing for a feast.  If the trap is compromised, or discipline is not maintained, the Pride does not eat.  Therefore the survival of the species can only be maintained through teamwork, strict discipline, maintaining basic shape or structure of the hunt and making a "Play" when the opportunity is there.

Sound Familiar?

The Lions just spoken about have formed a basic play and their survival depends on each member doing their job unselfishly and making plays when opportunities arise.  The survival of our Pride also depends on maintaining discipline, maintaining shape and being opportunistic.  Someone makes a play so the team can feast.  Sometimes it will be the wings chasing it to the centers, sometimes it will be the matriarch who will make a save to protect the Pride, and sometimes it will be a group chasing from down wind to create a trap.  It is the sometimes, that always needs to be an option.  But regardless of who it is, the Lion Pride survives because of hustle, discipline, focus and looking out for one another.  It survives by depending on teammates to make a play you need them to.  It survives by playing with control.  It survives by everyone playing their role, performing to their best abilities and focusing on the task at hand.  Make no mistakes about it - We Are A Lion Pride.  We are a family unit that depends on every single person.  Take on the responsibility of being a member of the Gahanna Lion Pride and revel in it.

We hunt big game and we hunt as a group...Let's go Hunting!

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

It's always an experience when you're dealing with the unknown.  And for High School Athletics in the great State of Ohio in the Spring, much is unknown.  Namely - the weather.  From sunshine and temperatures in the 60's in March to a chance of freezing and snow in April, the spring sport athlete in Ohio must overcome a variety of obstacles.  Throw in the rain and thunderstorms and a schedule for any sport is simply a "work in progress".  There's nothing definitive when it comes to a spring sports schedule in Ohio. 

Think your pitching on Tuesday against your conference rival, well three days of torrential downpours and that game might not be played until the following Thursday.  Tapering your runs to peak for a Saturday Track Invitational and your coach may make the decision if mother nature doesn't, that you shouldn't run in 40 degree temperatures.  Getting in a groove with your tennis doubles partner, how about taking the next 4 days off since we can't get on the courts because of the elements. 

So, it doesn't matter what sport you play in the Spring, perhaps with the exception of Boys Volleyball (you have shelter and climate control) our spring sport athletes are not only expected to prepare for their competition...tentatively scheduled, they must also prepare to run, throw or hit in the most unpredictable of weather.

I guess it's what makes spring sports in Ohio the the best...or at least the most unpredictable.

Stay Dry.  Go Lions!

Monday, April 4, 2011

The Inner Voice

Every athlete has an inner voice of pride.
It is the voice only athletes can hear, pushing them to the brink of exhaustion, demanding excellence and condemning failure.
Failure, understand is the driving force behind athletes.
Every athlete has experienced failure and now train so they will not experience it again.
This inner voice knows the difference between training and exercising.
Many athletes exercise stopping when they perceive a limit or when it becomes uncomfortable to continue.
But only a select few athletes have the heart and desire to train unconditionally.
Only a select few push past their physical and mental limits.
Only a select few push past pain and discomfort.
Only a select few have the courage and character to understand training makes them quicker, faster, stronger but most importantly allows them to gain a mental edge on future opponents.
So when failure laughs in my face as I try to earn the respect and repetition, it must realize.....
each time I train, I not only hear, I answer ....
the inner voice.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Gahanna Signings...so far

Thought I would keep the list updated and all Gahanna fans as to where our student-athletes will be playing next year.  Congratulations to those that have committed and to those still deciding.

Joey Tomko - Baseball - Elon
Tiyonna Marshall - Softball Miami
Stevie Taylor - Basketball - Ohio University
Wil Trapp - Soccer - Akron
Frazier Fernandez - Soccer - Ohio Dominican
Trevor Gates - Soccer - Ohio Dominican
Tyler Woolum - Soccer - California Pennsylvania
Jacob Rice - Soccer - Carnegie Mellon
Kameryn Carter - Football - Ashland
Cole Griesinger - Baseball - Ball State
Chris Davis - Soccer - Cincinnati
Parker McComb - Golf - Capital
Brandis Fishel - Softball - Ohio Dominican
Abby Easton - Volleyball - West Virginia State
Rashawn Ponder - Football - Adrian

Congrats and best of luck to our student-athlete while continuing their playing careers at the collegiate level.

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Regional Rematch

What an opportunity the Gahanna Boys Basketball Team has tonight 7pm at the Fairgrounds Coliseum to compete in the Division I Regional semi-final basketball game against Northland.  This time last year, Gahanna Lincoln and Northland faced off at the Fairgrounds before a sell-out crowd.  The first time "The Barn" had soldout since Jimmy Jackson played there in high school.

Gahanna Lincoln returns in the rematch as repeat champions and hopes of the same success as 2010.  The Lions are confident and excited about representing their families, school and the Gahanna Community in such a manner.  We hope the community shows their support in a wave of Blue for our team. 

Presale tickets are on sale until 3pm today in the Gahanna Lincoln Athletic Office.  $6 in advance, $8 at the door.

See you at the Barn...Go Lions!

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Tress

For anyone that has read the "Winners Manual" by Coach Jim Tressel, you probably woke up this morning, much like I, with mixed emotions and a small sense of betrayal.  For Buckeye Nation, you've come to appreciate elevated expectations of the football program, it's players, the product and perhaps to an extent a larger than life, holier than now and inordinate (in relation to other major Div. I football coaches) value of the man that sits at the helm of it all - Jim Tressel.  Perhaps, just like his players, Coach Tressel needs to reflect upon his "Purpose" and not get caught up in the "Goals" that I'm sure, is easily done and by knowing the Buckeye Nation expectations - can sometimes thwart ones logic or influence ones judgement for the sake of the "W".  

Aside from that, I still value the man and can't wait to see what he has in store for our beloved Buckeyes next... Here's the Block "O" of Life - Purpose and Goals.


The “PURPOSE” Components of the Block O

The top half of the Block O refers to our purpose.  Purpose comprises those aspects of life that define who we are as individuals and the kind of people we want to become.  We start with Purpose because we know that our spiritual beliefs and ethical values, and our commitment to personal integrity, family, and community, will become the foundation for all of our goals and everything else we do in life.  By starting with Purpose, we establish the importance of becoming whole people, not just good football players.

The “Goals” Components of the Block O

On the bottom half of the Block O, we list our goals.  This section is what we do, as opposed to what we are.  We know that football is our players’ favorite subject.  That’s why we’re here together, and that’s our common bond.  We have exceptionally high goals in mind for the group, and those come first in our team goals.  The needs of the team always come first, but that shouldn’t negatively affect an individual’s dreams concerning what he wants to become.  We’re going to give our players a plan that we believe will help us achieve our team goals and at the same time allow them to reach their individual goals.  It’s our job as coaches to show our team what they have to do to grow and develop so they can reach those football goals.

Sunday, March 6, 2011

If You Think

There may never be a better poem, for life and sport than this by Walter Wintle;  Enjoy and buy your pre-sale tickets for the Boys Basketball District Championship Game Saturday night Mar. 12th vs Walnut Ridge - 4pm at the Fairgrounds Coliseum.  Come out and support your Lions to back to back titles...on sale in the Gahanna Lincoln Athletic Office all week:

If You Think

If you think you are beaten you are.
If you think you dare not you don't!
If you want to win, but think you can't,
It's almost a cinch you won't.

If you think you'll lose, you're lost;
For out in the world we find
Success begins with a fellow's will;
It's all in the state of mind.

Life's battles don't always go
To the stronger and faster man,
But sooner or later the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can.

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Deja vu

The 2011 post-season has shades of old as our teams continue to progress through the tournaments. 

First, our wrestling team has yet another State Qualifier but many expected Drew McDougle to be returning to Value City Arena representing Gahanna and instead, it's 119 pounder Doryan Arnold.  The McDougles suffered injuries through the District tournament and failed to advance.  Leaving the mat set for Doryan, to upset Strope from Lancaster on his way to the State Championships.

The Gahanna Boys Bowling team were happy to break from last years District Final performance and eclipsed their mark from a year ago to advance to the State Championships this coming Saturday at Wayne Webb Bowling Alley.  They will begin their quest for a title on Saturday at 11am.

The Girls Basketball team defeated Newark last night in their District semifinal and are set for a 2010 tournament rematch with Northland, in which the Lions prevailed.  They hope to repeat that performance, and secure their 2nd consecutive District Championship and 3rd since 2006.  The Lady Lions will face Northland on Saturday at Olentangy Liberty 1pm.

The Boys Basketball team will again face Westerville North on the tournament trail as we have for the past 3 years.  The Lions are hoping that experience and their winning ways prove valuable as they take on the Warriors this Saturday in the nightcap at 8:45pm at the Fairgrounds Coliseum.

Pre-sale tickets for the Boys and Girls Basketball games are on sale in the Gahanna Lincoln Athletic Office all week.  We hope to see you this weekend rooting on our Lions.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Post Season

Gahanna Fans!
Check out how your Lions are doing throughout the tournament run by logging onto http://www.cdab.org/ or http://www.ohsaa.org/ and browse through the different winter sports brackets and qualifiers.

* The Girls Basketball team will be in action tonight at 8pm at Olentangy High School taking on Westerville Central
* The Boys Basketball Team will play Columbus West on Saturday Feb. 26th at 6pm at Worthington Christian
* Both the Boys and Girls Bowling teams have qualified for Districts this weekend
* Morgan Belli and Dillon Wagoner have qualified for teh State Swimming and Diving Championships this weekend in Canton

We wish all of our Lions the best of luck in the post-season and encourage you to go out and support our Lions!

Friday, February 18, 2011

Monday, February 14, 2011

Madness (February or March)

"Madness" is defined as; The quality or condition of being insane.
So, why is it that we refer to the NCAA Basketball tournament as March Madness?  I think I can probably sum a response to that question with the following;

1) The sheer insanity of trying to watch every game that's being televised...at once.  Have you ever gone to sports bar to watch 3 and 4 games being played at once?  If you're lucky, you'll walk out of there with only a slight cramp in your neck, from the constant rotating back and forth to see who's doing what and why are those people seated in that section of the bar screaming...only to find out that your TV is on a delay and they're seeing everything 7 seconds before you did - that's reason enough to cause insanity.

2)  You try to watch the 6 games being played at the same time in the luxuries and comforts of your own home...there's no better reason to be insane.  For one, you can't possibly have enough Picture and Picture options on your TV to see that many games and to top it off, CBS has a production crew that (I'm convinced), is just playing with our minds by switching from game to game, because some team just went on a 10-0 run and they thought you'd like to know.

3) How about the fact that you filled out 27 brackets, forgot to bring them home or if you did bring them home, spend an hour after every game highlighting the teams that won and crying and swearing that your "cinderella" team got knocked off in the first round.  Nice call on that  pick and thank you for your donation!

4) Finally, if you're like me - your insanity begins long before the "March Madness" when you're staying up way past midnight to catch teh west coast games that tip at 11:30pm EST so you can see who the heck UC Santa Barbara is and why is Dickie V talking about them. 

The fact is, we get consumed by the game, the number of games and the importance of every missed shot, buzzer beater and match-up.  It's a great time to be a fan.  In Ohio high school sports, we get the opportunity to begin this madness this week.  From Wrestling, Swimming, Ice Hockey and Boys & Girls Basketball - Our Madness begins this week. 

So, if you're ready to join the insanity - check out http://www.cdab.org/ or http://www.ohsaa.org/ and look at our area brackets to catch a game beginning this week.  The games / matches are just as exciting and just as important to these teams, players and coaches.  Good Luck to our Lions in their Tournament Madness!
Go Lions!

Faith

Faith is believing when I don't see it.
Faith is obeying when I don't understand it.
Faith is giving when I don't have it.
Faith is persevering when I don't feel like it.
Faith is praising God before I receive it.
Faith is trusting God even though I don't get it.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Hanging in the Balance

On November 20, 1988, the Los Angeles Times reported the following incident:

A screaming woman, trapped in a car dangling from a freeway transition road in East Los Angeles was rescued Saturday morning.  The nineteen-year old woman apparently fell asleep behind the wheel at a quarter after midnight.  The car, which plunged through a guard rail, was left dangling by its left rear wheel.  A half dozen passing motorists stopped, grabbed some ropes from one of their vehicles, tied the ropes to the back of the woman's car, and hung on until the emergency units arrived.  A ladder was extended from below to help stabilize the car while firefighters tied the vehicle to two trucks with cables and chains.

"Every time we would move the car," said one of the rescuers, "she'd yell and scream.  She was in pain."

It took almost two and one-half hours for passer-by, highway patrol officers, tow truck drivers, and firefighters - about twenty-five people in all - to secure the car and pull the woman to safety.

"It was kinda funny," Los Angelas County Fire Capt. Ross Marshall recalled later.  "She kept saying, 'I'll do it myself.'"

I'll do it myself...Don't we all experience that at times?  That you can do it alone. 
Well, as a part of a team and with potential Championships 'Hanging in the Balance' we all must realize that we cannot do it alone, that coaches, players, and teammates - can help us achieve those championships more so than we can do it on our own.  So, this week and the coming weeks - embrace those that are your rescuers, those a part of your team, hanging onto the ropes, extending their ladders and helping you reach your safety or better yet, your championships!  Good Luck to all of our Gahanna Lincoln athletes, coaches and teams as they comepete for championships.

Monday, February 7, 2011

Winding Down

It's hard to believe that the winter seasons are winding down already.  The final regular season games and events come to a close in less than 2 weeks, tournament draws have already taken place and post-season tournements begin this weekend for some. 

It's a cause for reflection and appreciation.  To reflect on how quickly we've gotten to this point of the season, the final games that might be played for a senior, a look back at what went right and what needs to be improved upon to extend a post season.  And to appreciate the fact that you had an opportunity to be a part of something special.  A Team! 

Too often, we get caught up in the fact that we didn't get enough playing time, that our win-loss record might not be what we had envisioned, or perhaps we've fallen short of our goals for the season.

I hope that as we take this opportunity to reflect, that we do so by focusing more on the appreciation and not so much on the critical reflection of what might have been.  The memories that you'll have 10, 15 or even 20 years from now will be of the commoraderie and sense of being, rather than that of the miscues that happened along the way.  So take a moment to enjoy where you are, what you were a part of and what you can take away as you go forward in life, school and for some your sport.  And...if you can appreciate that now, reflect on areas that can be improved in the immediate future, you just might have the chance to extend a season that is quickly coming to a close.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Changing Course

I've spent the past 3 days, since Friday night, confined to my bed with the flu...I've been isolated away from my family, not to infect them, missed several Gahanna Lincoln events - congrats to the Swim, Hockey and Competition Cheer teams for their strong performances this weekend.  I've watched more MSNBC in the 3 days than I think I have all year, and I thought I watched alot.  The breaking news for the weekend has been that of the "revolution" in Egypt and how the citizens are expressing their feelings of outrage and dissent amongst their government and the governments, refusal to change.

I thought of this Tale I once read...

A batleship had been at sea on manuevers in heavy weather for several days.  The captain, who was cncerned about the deteriorating conditions, stayed on the bridge so that he could keep an eye on all activities.  One night, shortly after dark, the lookout on the bridge suddenly shouted, 'A light, captain, bearing on the starboard bow.'
'Is it steady or moving astern?' the captain asked.
The lookout confirmed that it was steady, which meant that the battleship was apparently on a dangerous collision course with the other ship.  The captain then called to the signalman, 'Signal that ship: "We are on a coliision course.  Advise you change course 20 degrees north."'
Back came the response from the other ship: 'You change course 20 degrees south.'
Annoyed at the arrogance of the response, the captain said, 'Send: "I am a captain, change course 20 degrees north."'
'I am a seaman second class,' came the reply, 'you had still better shange course 20 degrees south.'
By this time, the captain was furious.  He shouted, 'Send: "I am a battleship.  Change course 20 degrees north."'
Back came the flashing light: 'I am a lighthouse.'
The captain changed course.

The moral of that tale is this:
Flexibility is key to common sense and success.

I hope those in Egypt exercise a little flexibility in their decisions or they're on a collision course for something they probably don't want to see.

I guess that lesson is good for each of us and certainly fitting for coaches everyday.  We have to be flexible, or we will run ashore.

Thursday, January 27, 2011

The Lesson of the Geese

The Lessons of the Geese

“As geese flap their wings, they create uplift for the bird following. By flying in a V formation, the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if any bird were to fly alone. If we share a common direction and a sense of community, we can get where we are going more quickly and easily because we are traveling on the thrust of one another!

Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to fly alone, and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front. If we have as much sense as geese, we will stay in formation with those who are headed where we want to go, and we will be willing to accept their help as well as give ours to others.

When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into formation and another goose flies at the point position. If we take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership as with the geese, we become interdependent with one another.
The geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed. If we "honk," we need to make sure it is positive and encouraging.

When a goose gets sick or wounded or is shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it is able to fly again or dies. They then launch out on their own, with another formation or catch up with the flock. If we have as much sense as geese, we too will stand by each other in difficult times, as well as when we are strong. Let us all try to fly in formation and remember to drop back to help those who might need it!

The greatest accomplishments in life are not achieved by individuals alone, but by proactive people pulling together for a common good. Look behind every winner and you will find a great coach. Look out in front of every superstar and you will see a positive role model. Look alongside every great achiever and you will find caring people offering encouragement, support and able assistance.”

John Murphy, Pulling Together: The Power of Teamwork

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

To Be and MVP

Every team leader desires players who will make significant contributions that take teh team to the top.  In athletics, when a player steps up during crunch time, that individual is often recognized as the most valuable player.

The caliber of play comes from the caliber of the player.  Any team player has the potential to be the MVP, as long as he or she...

V - Visualizes what can be, not just what is
A - Appreciates other players and those associated with the program
L - Leads by example on and off the court, field or track
U - Understands the purpose of the program, the vision of the coaches and the goals set forth
A - Adds value to the team in every aspect
B - Believes in the principles being taught and shares those with others
L - Learns from mistakes and teachers others not to make those same mistakes
E - Encourages his/her teammates to achieve greatest beyond what they belive possible

So, you don't have to be the one that takes that last shot, that catches or throws that final pass.  You don't have to be the one that advances farther than any other player on your team or be the one that carries the load of your teammates when the the game is on the line.  Remember, there were plays and practices and preparations that led you and your team to that moment long before the final play was executed, the final race was run or the final ball was pitched.  Each of you...each of us, have an opportunity to be the MVP, but only you, only I can make that choice to the be the most V.A.L.U.A.B.L.E

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Historic Day

Think back with me for a moment and try to remember what you were doing in the winter of 1968-69.  For those of you trying to figure the math, that's 42 years ago. 

Here at Gahanna Lincoln in 1968-69, a senior basketball player by the name of Mike Browning was completing his High School basketball career and had accumulated 1262 points for his career.  Mike would go on to continue his basketball talents at Clemson University and his Career Points record at Gahanna Lincoln would go on to stand for more than 42 years.

Tonight, another Gahanna Lincoln senior basketball player - Stevie Taylor will have the opportunity to eclipse that long standing record of 42 years and 1262 points.  Tonight, Stevie enters the game with 1257 points for his career and 5 shy of setting a new mark.

History would suggest that Stevie, upon breaking this record might see his total stand for another 42 years, and Stevie has six more regular season games remaining on the schedule and a tournament run.  He's averaging over 20 points per game this season, so when it's all said and done, he may shatter this total and leave his mark that hundreds may never come close to achieving.

42 years ago...what might Stevie Taylor be doing 42 years from now when his Gahanna Lincoln and Ohio University Basketball career is over?  What will you be doing 42 years from now?  And will you be able to say, I was there on January 25th, 2011 when Stevie Taylor broke that long standing record.  I hope you can.  We'll see you at the game tonight!
Go Lions!  And Go Stevie!

Monday, January 24, 2011

Busy Week for Gahanna Lincoln Athletics

Good Monday Morning Gahanna Lincoln Fans,

After completing a fun-filled weekend of events, highlighted by the Boys Basketball team - first traveling to Newark and defeating league foe Newark in a hard fought contest, the boys went on to defeat #2 in the State in Division 2, Chillicothe in the Scholastic Play by Play Classic at Capital University on Saturday.  They will now focus their attention to finishing the season as Back to Back OCC Champions, first the first time a school in the OCC Ohio has done that since the 80's. 

Tuesday they face Lancaster at Home and Friday at Home vs Pickerington Central (Alley Oop for Autism).

Stevie Taylor will attempt to set the All-time Scoring Record for Gahanna Lincoln on Tuesday - Stevie needs 5 pts to set the record.

Wrestling will be at Home Thursday to face Pickerington Central - Bowling at Home Thursday taking on Westerville Central and the Swim teams will compete in the OCC Championships Friday and Saturday.

Come out and support our Lions as they begin to wrap up the 2010-11 Winter Seasons.
Go Lions!

Saturday, January 22, 2011

2011 Gahanna Duals

For those of you looking to get out on a Saturday, stop in at Gahanna Lincoln High School and catch some of the 2011 Gahanna Duals. 

Wrestling begins at 10am - here's the lineup:
10am: Gahanna - Canal; Davidson - Field; Teays Valley - St. Charles
11:30: Canal - St. Charles; Davidson - Gahanna; Teays - Field
1pm: Canal - St. Charles; Teays - Gahanna; Field - St. Charles
2:30: St. Charles - Davidson; Teays - Canal; Field - Gahanna
3:30: Canal - Field; Davidson - Teays; Gahanna - St. Charles

The 3:30 match with Teays Valley and Davidson always proves to be an exciting event; passionate, intense and great wrestling.  Hope you get a chance to stop by!
Ready...Wrestle.

Friday, January 21, 2011

Snow Day!

There was nothing like a snow day when I was in school.  Mom would come in my room and whisper, "no school" and it was back to sleep I went.  I can only imagine we have several of our student-athletes doing the same thing this morning.  But there's also something to be said for a routine and having those athletes getting up and moving around, not laying in bed all day. 

Hopefully, our student-athletes are up and able to read this blog this morning, getting into somewhat of a routine today in preparation for their games tonight.  After all, the games are ON!  See you at the game.  Go Lions!

Thursday, January 20, 2011

First post

I want to welcome you the site.  My intention is to keep you up to date on the issues, challenges and events facing the Athletic programs at Gahanna Lincoln High School and throughout the state of Ohio.  I welcome each of you and look forward to sharing information soon.