Legacy and tradition underpin many aspects of teamwork. A few weeks ago we played (and won) the 117th playing of “The Game,” one of the longest-running high school rivalries in the Nation.
Today, November 10th, marks the 247th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. I have a few close friends and several former players who are Marines. It’s true there’s something special about the men and women of The Corps, their character, culture and traditions.
In celebrations worldwide, Marines will gather to share a meal and for dessert, a traditional cake. Tradition dictates the oldest Marine present gets the first piece, and he or she then passes on the piece to the youngest Marine present, symbolizing the passing on of knowledge, experience, and legacy. Last week I noted our tradition of senior players relaying their most memorable places on the field, and sharing their legacy with those who will follow.
In 2009, I was fortunate enough to participate in the Marine Corps’ Educators Workshop, traveling to Parris Island, SC., getting a taste of Marine Corps boot camp, participating in training, and learning firsthand about the Marine Corps mission of Making Marines, Winning Battles, and Developing Quality Citizens.
I’d like to think we’ve successfully patterned our program along the same lines, and as coaches, we make teammates, win games, and develop student-athletes who go on to become quality citizens in their own right. We teach and encourage the same leadership traits and focus on concepts like service and interdependence.
Happy Birthday, Marines! Long live the Corps!
Coach Rich Alercio is available to discuss coaching philosophy, X’s & O’s, or teach his O-Line “techniques in the trenches.” Contact Coach at richalercio@gmail.com and share http://www.olineskills.com with your colleagues and friends. Thanks for supporting this blog and joining our conversations, and as always, thanks for your time!
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