It says EVERYTHING about what we want to leave behind. I look at numbers like that and grimmace . . . . No one would peek at that and look away with a smile. Unless you are an opponent. [Sorry, that was a little mean right there.]
So it is confession time . . . from me to you. I have been watching the videos of our games from last year. I have to tell you there ARE some very good moments. I have seen passes being put together that were not possible two years ago. I have seen some movement off the ball - people making runs to get into open space - and I actually smiled. I have heard moments of girls actually using their voices to communicate and it sounded like soccer terminology. Another smile. I even saw defensive players being support to the offensive players as something that looked very much like Mexico was being played out. Those dang videos have a tendency to tell the truth: YOU CAN PLAY THIS GAME WELL!
Let me tell you what else you can do. You can take ownership of this program. Yes, it is up to me and my coaches to provide the framework within which to play. But when it comes down to it, YOU are the executioners. You have to DO. This "program" is NOT the Kimble program - as if I have some magic formula to make things perfect. It is true that I have coached for several years. It is true that I study the game so I can be the best that I can be. My passion for the game is undeniable. But it is NOT about me at all. It is about you. It is YOUR legacy you are creating. YOUR reputation on the line. YOUR memories. And since it is YOURS, protect it. Grow it. And if anyone . . . any team mate . . . any friend . . . any opponent . . . anyone tries to stop you from making this the best program it can be, then call that person out. Put it back on that person. Counter the negative with the powerful positive. Team mate not practicing hard? Push her to work harder! Team mate making bad passes? Stop giving her the ball until her head is on straight. Team mate missing shots on goal? Keep giving her the ball - at least she is getting opportunities. Friend talking trash on our team? Increase her dental bill! [I really hope you know I am NOT serious with that last one.]
My point is: when you own it, you protect it. When things are protected, they tend to grow. Growth equals success.
So those dang videos also reveal inconsistencies in our play. Moments of greatness are surrounded by moments of . . . . well, I will let you fill in that blank. I honestly think if more of you girls take an ownership mentality to your program, you will hold each other accountable and develop a more consistent style of play. Calling each other out does not belittle anyone. It is not personal - by golly I hope we are well beyond that crap! It is a way to look each other in the eyes and say to that person, "Look, you are better than what you just did. Get it together. If you don't, you owe me a pizza!"
So ladies, as you read through these posts, I hope you get a sense of what I am expecting this year. As a matter of fact, as you leave a comment, YOU tell ME what you think I mean with these writings! Have fun!