Attitude -- Traits of a Champion: Part 1

Definitions and Quotes organized by Jon Whithaus This is part one of a series of 13 posts designed to trigger thinking about what are the true traits of champions. Each post in this series identifies a trait that champions own. Next the trait is defined. Then quotes are provided that illustrate the trait. The final step is up to you...evaluate yourself. Is the trait strong within you? Now focus on finding ways to strengthen the trait and establish yourself as a champion.

Attitude

Defined: 1. Sure: certain and not in doubt 2. Confident, optimistic, and focusing on the good things rather than bad 3. Producing good results because of having an innately beneficial character 4. Encouraging behavior, especially in the young, that is considered morally good Quotes:

The Power of Attitude Our lives are not determined by what happens to us, but by how we react to what happens; not by what life brings us, but by the attitude we bring to life. A positive attitude causes a chain reaction of positive thoughts, events, and outcomes. It is a catalyst … a spark that creates extraordinary results. -- Unknown author The Light of Optimism Sometimes we learn the hard way that it doesn’t pay to get discouraged. Positive thinking is an intellectual choice, and by keeping our eyes focused on the light of optimism, we can restore faith in ourselves, and stay clear of the shadows. -- Unknown author Teamwork Coming together is a beginning … keeping together is progress … working together is a success. -- Unknown author

Teamwork Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishment toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results. -- Unknown author

Searching for the Right Collegiate Team: Part 3

Depth of Competition in Men's Golf Do not let the NCAA designation of Division I, II or III cloud your view of a golf program. The difference between I, II, and III is mainly the amount of available athletic based scholarship (explained in the previous post) and depth of competition. Division affiliation should not influence your view regarding important factors such as competitiveness of the program, quality of the coach, quality of the facilities, team environment, and the total cost of attending school. Depth of Competition There are approximately 280 Division I golf teams, 170 Division II golf teams, and 230 Division III golf teams. It is important to understand that not all Division I teams are better than all Division II teams and both are not better than all Division III teams. In my opinion one major difference between the divisions is the number of quality teams that exist at each division. At the Division I level there are a lot of teams that usually compete at a high level at the Division II level this number is much smaller and at the Division III level it is even smaller. Though the number of quality teams is smaller in Division II and III, the teams at the top of those Divisions are excellent and can compete with many division I schools. It is wise to pick your college based on the facts, not on the generalization of Division.

Searching for the Right Collegiate Team: Part 2

Scholarship Facts for Men's Golf Do not let the NCAA designation of Division I, II or III cloud your view of a golf program. The difference between I, II, and III is mainly the amount of available athletic based scholarship and depth of competition (explained in the next post). Division affiliation should not influence your view regarding important factors such as competitiveness of the program, quality of the coach, quality of the facilities, team environment, and the total cost of attending school. Scholarship Amount – You may already be aware of this information but it does not hurt to be reminded. Division I schools have 4.5 total scholarships, Division II schools have 3.6 total scholarships, and Division III schools do not offer athletic-based scholarships. Though this may seem like a substantial difference, there are many factors to consider before you can compare the cost of attending different schools. Factors that should be considered when assessing cost of attending a particular school are: 1) Total amount of tuition, fees, room, board, and books 2) Non-athletic based scholarships available 3) Athletic based scholarships available (significant scholarship offers are very rare in college golf because teams usually have between 9 and 14 players all of whom receive some portion of the 4.5 or 3.6 total scholarship amount).

Searching for the Right Collegiate Team: Part 1

The Right Fit Find the “right fit” for you! I cannot stress the importance of this enough. Choose a university because you feel at home there and know that is where you will be the happiest. Making your decision because a coach has pressured you for a decision or because people in your community expect you to attend a “big name school” is not the right reason to make a decision. The following topics are a good place to start when evaluating different universities and their golf programs. 1) The University – Would you be happy at the university if you didn’t play golf? 2) Team Environment – Will you improve as a golfer playing for the head coach? Are the players on the team the type of individuals that will make you better? 3) Your Ability – Do you have a realistic view of your golf game and where that puts you on the team? 4) Facilities – Do the golf team facilities provide you with the opportunity to improve?