Personal Statement
As in all aspects of life, excellence is only achieved by augmenting God-given talent with discipline, dedication, and dogged pursuit. I possess a zeal for achievement that I challenge others to match and invite my teammates to join. Each of us has limitations, but I press them so they are minimized and thereby mitigate their impact on my abilities and reduce their threat to be a barrier for me. I have done it all my life in and outside the gymnasium. This is what I offer to any school who blesses me with the opportunity to be a member of their organization. To me, it is not about winning, but instead succeeding. Winning is an acute event, whereas succeeding is the continuous chronic climb to be better everyday.
You can ask any of my coaches through the years ( started playing basketball in first grade but dribbling full-sized courts at 18 months and the first freshman starter in over 25 years) and they will quickly tell you I am the first one in the gym and last one to leave. My high school varsity coach in 9th grade called me "crazy" because I was in the gym working out hours before games while my teammates were out eating at restaurants or at the beach. I am at the school before most teachers arrive (janitors know me well) and return to the gym in the evening when it is open. It is all in the pursuit to improve.
Of course, I have been blessed with talent. I have always had the best shot in the gym, high basketball IQ, and vision, but I supplement all with countless hours of video. Sometimes to watch others and learn, while other times I am reviewing myself to find weaknesses, improvements, better decisions, etc. The success I have enjoyed on the court has been years in the making through working hard and dedication. Remember the old saying, "how do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice." I must admit that it is easy to work hard because I enjoy the work. I love the day to day grind of work, so it is not really work after all.
I have the same mentality in the classroom. My grades are very good and it is with hard work. I may not be the smartest student in the classroom but I will strive to perform so I succeed. I accept the challenges of academics with discipline and vigor.
I desire to play at the collegiate level and in the process bring value to my team and pride to my school. To play college sports is a blessing and wonderful experience beyond the court. I want to match with a coach, school, and program that is a good fit for both them and me so we can maximize our efforts and surpass expectations together.
To any school who chooses to add me to their roster-I will make you proud.
