Motivation Is Key

Today's blog post is by Brett Sessetti, a senior marketing major at the University of Notre Dame and a student in the Social Foundations of Coaching course taught by Play Like a Champion directors Professor Clark Power and Kristin Sheehan.

On January 17, 2014, a high school basketball player named Spencer Wilson hit an incredible, game-winning shot to defeat his team’s archrival. The game that pitted Wilson'sVillains against Mount Airy ended in dramatic fashion, with a Mount Airy player at the free throw line with 2.2 seconds left. They were leading as well, 82-81, and so it seemed nearly impossible that the Villains could pull out the victory. With the free throw rolling off the rim, however, Spencer Wilson had the chance to get a shot off after a clutch rebound and assist by his teammate. He heaved a 50-foot shot that bounced off the backboard and into the net, ending the game at 84-82 and sending the crowd into a frenzy.
 

Check out the incredible final 2.2 seconds here:

 

Before the game, Coach Thompson of the Villains told every player to pick someone to whom they would dedicate their performance. The hero in the game, Spencer Wilson, chose someone very important to him, Josh Rominger. Wilson and Rominger were two great friends that both had been diagnosed with cancer. Wilson beat his cancer but, unfortunately, Rominger did not. He passed away nine months prior to the game, but Wilson kept his spirit alive with an unbelievable shot.

Coach Thompson decided to give his team this sense of motivation because the Villains were going up against their archrivals. He hit home with some of the players, one of whom chose his parents as his dedication. Spencer Wilson also chose someone with whom he had a special connection. After the game, Spencer signed Josh Rominger’s name on the game ball to commemorate the special moment.

This story stands out as a great example of a coach connecting with his players and giving them the opportunity to fight for something. By relating sports to athletes’ lives off the court, this particular coach found a great way to motivate his players. Thanks to a great coach, a dedicated friend, and an incredible moment in sports, we all can enjoy this story of a tribute to a lost friend.