Great teammate

Monday, March 25

March Madness is a big deal in our house. We’ve got brackets lining our refrigerator, the games are on on multiple TVs, scores and storylines are part of many discussions. We’re locked in. It’s especially fun to see coaches and teams we work with have postseason success.

One of the best stories of the tournament this year has been Jack Gohlke of Oakland University. The small school Grizzlies knocked off perennial powerhouse Kentucky in round one behind 10 3-pointers from Gohlke - one shy of tying the single game tournament record. He would hit 6 more in their next game, an overtime loss. His 16 combined 3-pointers in two games would set a tournament record.

What I found fascinating about the story was not the David vs Goliath perspective, although that it always a fun angle. What struck me is that Gohlke, a senior, is not a starter.

The star of March Madness was someone who came off the bench.

Looking at their stats throughout the season, Gohlke is a significant contributor for the team. Though he doesn’t lead the team in any major statistical category (other than shooting/making 3-pointers), he is their second leading scorer. Two juniors and a sophomore start ahead of him.

And yet, Gohlke just shows up and does his job. The stories they told about him and the way his teammates talked about him, he doesn’t complain, doesn’t demand he be in the starting lineup, doesn’t throw a fit. He just puts in the work and is ready when his name is called. He knows that he doesn’t have to be a starter to have a major impact on the game. He knows he doesn’t have to be “the guy” to have a major impact on the game. He knows his role. He plays it to the highest level. He reminds me of Manu Ginobli of the San Antonio Spurs, who would go on to be a Hall of Famer as the team’s 6th man.

This is what it looks like to be a great teammate. You believe your role matters. You commit to your craft. You serve the best interest of the team. You execute when you are called on. No ego, no entitlement.

Show up and be a great teammate today.

​
Keep chopping wood. 🪵🪓

-Kevin

A heads up: many of you have asked about an audio version of Keep Chopping Wood over the years. Almost 4 years later, that is finally a reality. If audio books are your thing, grab your copy here.