John Wooden – a life incredibly well lived

When my wife graduated from high school – she included a quote from John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success on her graduation announcements:

“Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self satisfaction in knowing you made the best effort to do the best of which you are capable.”

The summer of her graduation, a friend of my wife’s was visiting the UCLA campus. John Wooden had long since retired but he maintained an office on campus. He was the greatest coach in the history of sports – but, being the humble man he was, anyone could drop by to visit.

And so, my wife’s friend dropped by Coach Wooden’s office and told him about my wife including his quote on her graduation cards. Coach Wooden then signed a copy of his Pyramid of Success thanking Suzanne for her interest.

I can confidently say there will never be a more cherished autograph in our home.

Fast forward about 25 years. I had been doing my talk show for ten years. I had interviewed the Vice-President of the United States (Al Gore)… I had talked with my boyhood idol (Brooks Robinson)… but I had never been in awe of a guest – until I had a chance to interview Coach Wooden.

You know his bio – ten national championships in 12 years – including seven straight. A run of excellence that will never be equaled – not just in college basketball – but in all of sports.

And he did it with a grace, style and level of humility that will also never be equaled. He truly touched the lives of all he coached – and that’s what all of us who coach strive to do.

Monday afternoon, I will replay my interview with Coach Wooden – who passed away Friday at the age of 99. We will never see anyone like him again.