Synopsis
It is my intent in the writing of this book to reveal a few of the many lessons (in life) that should be taught to our student athletes. We must be able to reach each individual's heart and mind through the understanding of these methods, concepts and ideas. I firmly believe we must develop the character of the student athlete first in order for them to achieve success in life and through this development of character the student athlete will establish a firm foundation on which to make sound decisions. The coaching of basketball allows an opportunity to teach and establish positive morals and values and in doing so will allow the student athlete a foundation from which they can reasonably expect success. We as coaches, parents and educators must help to develop the minds and hearts of our young student athletes if we are to succeed and flourish as a nation. It is my belief that through a successful sports program, such positive ideas, concepts and methods can be taught and expressed. I believe such ideas as setting goals, the development of a positive attitude and self-discipline are essential in the growth and well-being of our student athletes and our nation. Hopefully, through the teaching of these ideas and methods, individual growth will continue and with an expanded self awareness, selfishness will be replaced by selflessness. When this transformation of the heart and mind is complete and when we, as individuals, turn from selfishness to selflessness, all mankind will begin to fully understand the meaning of God's love. It is through the acceptance of God's love, we as His creation are drawn to Jesus Christ. For God is love and it is only through knowing Jesus Christ that love truly lives. I wholeheartedly believe, that with this new found knowledge of Christ, will come eternal truth, faith, hope and salvation. (John 3:16) Respectfully, Phil Ripton
About the Author
Phil Ripton is a true basketball legend in my neck of the woods. The first thousand-point scorer at my high school, Phil is renowned for his playing and teaching skills. His greatest contribution to the game has been his mentorship to his players. His players are expected to honor the game - character and integrity on and off the court matter to him. Ripton-coached players know that mental toughness and the will to prepare are traits that can be applied to basketball and life. Josh Tardy, House Republican LeaderFormer Chair - Girls Basketball, New England AAU * * * I have known Phil Ripton for 27 years and have had the pleasure of observing him as a coach. I was his assistant for 7 years and he coached my daughter at that time. I can affirm that Phil teaches more than basketball to the players. He pushes them to excel in school work, and to set goals for life as well. The lessons he teaches motivates them to achieve success on and off the court. I have seen Phil take young people that no one else wanted on their team and make a winning team of them. They will always over achieve when coached by Phil. I was there when he coached a junior high team and competed with a high school team that was heading for the tournament and beat that team. Those girls believed him when he told them how to win and they went out and performed at their highest level possible. Any book Phil would write on how to succeed in sports would be worth reading by any coach or player in any sport. The principles he teaches will cause success not only in sports, but in life as well. Sincerely, Reverend Richard A. BerrySenior Pastor, Trinity Evangelical Free ChurchSkowhegan, Maine
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