Last weekend, a story hit the wires that made news in baseball circles but did not get much play beyond us baseball freaks. A young man of 23 years named Grant Desme decided to leave baseball and begin the process of becoming a Priest. Last year, he played A ball at both Kane County and Stockton. Both are Oakland A's minor league teams. He batted .288 with 31 home runs, 89 runs batted in (rbis) and 40 steals. He was the only player at any level in the minors to have 30 home runs and at least 30 steals. In his fall league, he hit .315 with 11 home runs and 27 rbis in 27 games. This young man has talent and was expected to rise to AA or AAA ball in the spring. He was quoted in the San Francisco Chronicle as saying "I'm doing well in baseball. But I had to get down to the bottom of things, to what was good in my life, what I wanted to do with my life. Baseball is a good thing, but that felt selfish of me when I felt that God was calling me more. It took a while to trust that and open up to it and aim full steam toward Him...I love the game, but going to aspire to higher things."
How many of us hear the call to do something different but ignore it? Many of us have but not acted on it and find ourselves going through the motions. There are many factors one has to consider when determining your life's work. Money is certainly one of them. You have to admire this young man's maturity and decision. He is pursuing his call and willing to give up the potential of millions of dollars and a different kind of glory. How many of us would put our faith in God and forgo all that he has? It would be very difficult.
He has entered a Catholic Seminary in Orange, CA and will begin to discern whether the Priesthood is for him. Selfishly, I hope it is, but only God knows that answer. The fact that he is willing to put his trust in God is a good first step. For the rest of us, be open to your purpose and determine the right path for you. We don't get many chances to pursue happiness in our lives, so be open to it when you can.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Lead by Example
In the summer of 2007, I decided to write a book based on people in my life that have influenced me in a positive way. I went through the process of interviewing twelve individuals or couples but have never taken the next step. I've felt bad that I took their time and didn't follow up.
Today, my goals don't include writing a book. Perhaps one day I'll catch up to my wife Joan, who's written three. To honor those who took the time to sit with me two years ago, I will feature one person/couple a month in this blog. Though it's not a sports example, the profiles provide leadership examples. Specifically, each represents some formation of one of my core values-not just as a younger man, but throughout my life. Each of these folks has lived a wonderful life with many life lessons. Today, we start with the first couple I interviewed, Dutchie and Larry Brandon who have helped form and strengthen my core value of courage and have led by example throughout their lives.
Larry is a Deacon at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church in West Chester, PA and was ordained in the first class of diaconates in the Baltimore Archdiocese in 1973. They moved to West Chester in 1974. Larry is retired but had a very successful career in the insurance industry starting with USF & G in 1957 culminating as Chairman of the American Institute in Malvern, PA. He retired in 2001 but has been active and serves on several boards. Dutchie, his wife of nearly 53 years raised 7 children and has supported Larry in so many ways. The beauty of all my interviews rests in understanding a person's foundation. Dutchie and Larry have lived thier lives according to their moral compass. In their lifetime, they have marched with the Berrigan brothers, started charities in their community, and have been leaders in the Catholic church.
I'm drawn to the Brandons because of their quiet compassion and moral strength. They walk with confidence and without airs. Larry is so soft spoken that you have to strain to hear his wonderful homilies. They have a rock solid belief system that resonates from within. I am most impressed with their love for each other and their family (including 21 grandchildren). Their faith and love have carried them on a wonderful journey.
Larry and Dutchie have set an example for their family and friends. There's a calmness that invokes confidence, a grace that produces wonderment, and a passion for life that transcends generations. They continue to set a wonderful example daily.
Today, my goals don't include writing a book. Perhaps one day I'll catch up to my wife Joan, who's written three. To honor those who took the time to sit with me two years ago, I will feature one person/couple a month in this blog. Though it's not a sports example, the profiles provide leadership examples. Specifically, each represents some formation of one of my core values-not just as a younger man, but throughout my life. Each of these folks has lived a wonderful life with many life lessons. Today, we start with the first couple I interviewed, Dutchie and Larry Brandon who have helped form and strengthen my core value of courage and have led by example throughout their lives.
Larry is a Deacon at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church in West Chester, PA and was ordained in the first class of diaconates in the Baltimore Archdiocese in 1973. They moved to West Chester in 1974. Larry is retired but had a very successful career in the insurance industry starting with USF & G in 1957 culminating as Chairman of the American Institute in Malvern, PA. He retired in 2001 but has been active and serves on several boards. Dutchie, his wife of nearly 53 years raised 7 children and has supported Larry in so many ways. The beauty of all my interviews rests in understanding a person's foundation. Dutchie and Larry have lived thier lives according to their moral compass. In their lifetime, they have marched with the Berrigan brothers, started charities in their community, and have been leaders in the Catholic church.
I'm drawn to the Brandons because of their quiet compassion and moral strength. They walk with confidence and without airs. Larry is so soft spoken that you have to strain to hear his wonderful homilies. They have a rock solid belief system that resonates from within. I am most impressed with their love for each other and their family (including 21 grandchildren). Their faith and love have carried them on a wonderful journey.
Larry and Dutchie have set an example for their family and friends. There's a calmness that invokes confidence, a grace that produces wonderment, and a passion for life that transcends generations. They continue to set a wonderful example daily.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
A Slippery Slope
This may seem a bit dated given all that has gone on in sports the last week. I want to take you back to the announcement of the new inductee to the Baseball Hall of Fame. As you may recall, the very good Andre Dawson made it in the regular voting.
I am a passionate baseball fan so bear with me while I make the argument that Andre Dawson is not deserving of the Hall. I believe that the Hall of Fame is for the exceptional, not the very good. I have watched baseball for 45 years and have seen some very good players. I have also seen or watched on TV a handful of exceptional players. Let me recount them in alphabetical order: Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks, Johnny Bench, Wade Boggs, George Brett, Lou Brock, Rod Carew, Roberto Clemente, Steve Carlton, Bob Gibson, Tony Gwynn, Catfish Hunter, Al Kaline, Sandy Koufax, Reggie Jackson, Mickey Mantle, Juan Marichal, Willie Mays, Willie McCovey, Paul Molitor, Joe Morgan, Eddie Murray, Jim Palmer, Tony Perez, Cal Ripken, Jr., Frank Robinson, Nolan Ryan, Mike Schmidt, Tom Seaver, Ozzie Smith, Willie Stargell, Carl Yastrzemski, and Robin Yount. This list is based on the best players I have seen in my lifetime. In 45 years, I believe there are 33 outstanding baseball players. A very elite list. Since 1970, 178 men have been elected to the Hall of Fame. Is it possible there's some dilution going on?
So what's the big deal. Here it is-as you add men who are good, they become the model and base for the future Hall of Fame voting. In the past, there were certain targets that if met, brought you into the Hall. Offensively, if you had more that 3,000 hit or over 500 home runs you were a lock. Pitchers who won 300 games also got in. These are automatic entries because it is so difficult to do. Unfortunately, a player like Andre Dawson doesn't match up. He had a .279 batting average, 438 home runs and 1,591 runs batted in. Now, the next guy who has similar numbers will have to be considered. Again, Dawson was a very, very good player but not exceptional. The Hall will continue to dilute and the exceptional will be crowded out by the very good.
How about your organization? Ever had to hire someone in a hurry to fill a position? You allow someone in your organization that "can do the job" but is not perfect for the job. You should only be hiring exceptional people. Once you dilute the hiring, all others interviewed are compared to the very good (or worse). What will eventually happen to your organization? It will move toward mediocrity rather than excellence. This will require more time supervising, mentoring, cajoling, documenting and ultimately firing. Not very productive from my standpoint.
Keep your standards high. Perform at your best and expect the same of others. It's a slippery slope once you go down the path of settling for less than the best.
I am a passionate baseball fan so bear with me while I make the argument that Andre Dawson is not deserving of the Hall. I believe that the Hall of Fame is for the exceptional, not the very good. I have watched baseball for 45 years and have seen some very good players. I have also seen or watched on TV a handful of exceptional players. Let me recount them in alphabetical order: Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks, Johnny Bench, Wade Boggs, George Brett, Lou Brock, Rod Carew, Roberto Clemente, Steve Carlton, Bob Gibson, Tony Gwynn, Catfish Hunter, Al Kaline, Sandy Koufax, Reggie Jackson, Mickey Mantle, Juan Marichal, Willie Mays, Willie McCovey, Paul Molitor, Joe Morgan, Eddie Murray, Jim Palmer, Tony Perez, Cal Ripken, Jr., Frank Robinson, Nolan Ryan, Mike Schmidt, Tom Seaver, Ozzie Smith, Willie Stargell, Carl Yastrzemski, and Robin Yount. This list is based on the best players I have seen in my lifetime. In 45 years, I believe there are 33 outstanding baseball players. A very elite list. Since 1970, 178 men have been elected to the Hall of Fame. Is it possible there's some dilution going on?
So what's the big deal. Here it is-as you add men who are good, they become the model and base for the future Hall of Fame voting. In the past, there were certain targets that if met, brought you into the Hall. Offensively, if you had more that 3,000 hit or over 500 home runs you were a lock. Pitchers who won 300 games also got in. These are automatic entries because it is so difficult to do. Unfortunately, a player like Andre Dawson doesn't match up. He had a .279 batting average, 438 home runs and 1,591 runs batted in. Now, the next guy who has similar numbers will have to be considered. Again, Dawson was a very, very good player but not exceptional. The Hall will continue to dilute and the exceptional will be crowded out by the very good.
How about your organization? Ever had to hire someone in a hurry to fill a position? You allow someone in your organization that "can do the job" but is not perfect for the job. You should only be hiring exceptional people. Once you dilute the hiring, all others interviewed are compared to the very good (or worse). What will eventually happen to your organization? It will move toward mediocrity rather than excellence. This will require more time supervising, mentoring, cajoling, documenting and ultimately firing. Not very productive from my standpoint.
Keep your standards high. Perform at your best and expect the same of others. It's a slippery slope once you go down the path of settling for less than the best.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
What Took So Long?
The first day of the new year brought us news that Gilbert Arenas and his Washington Wizards teammate, Jarvis Crittenton pulled guns on each other after a recent practice. By my calculation, the event happened in December. Today, NBA Commissioner, David Stern, suspended Arenas indefinitely. Commissioner Stern is being hailed as a "zero tolerance" man coming down hard on Arenas. Not to be impolite, but WHAT TOOK SO LONG? It seems to me if an employee brings a gun to their workplace, they are gone. At minimum, a whole week has gone by without any action. In fact, Arenas was in Philadelphia last night and mocked the situation by being photographed before the game pointing his index fingers as guns in amusement. He played in the game.
I am not a big pro basketball fan (see paragraph above) but I do have some common sense. Why didn't the Wizards suspend him and Crittenton pending an investigation? A firearm in the locker room should not be tolerated for any reason. It's incredible that nothing happened until today. Perhaps the Wizards should change their name back to the Bullets.
It is my belief that the Wizards will never be a winning organization. Accepting thug-like behavior transcends the team and crumbles a positive foundation. In business, there are rules, procedures, policies and guidelines in place that set the tone and culture for all employees. It's not the written word that defines the culture but the actions that support it. How does your organization live up to its mission and core values? Many of you have them on the wall in the reception area or in the hallways. Are they for show or are all levels walking the talk?
It's hard to do the right thing because we've become jaded by headlines like these. Go back to basics, blow the dust off your values statement and set the right foundation for your organization. You'll be surprised at the results.
I am not a big pro basketball fan (see paragraph above) but I do have some common sense. Why didn't the Wizards suspend him and Crittenton pending an investigation? A firearm in the locker room should not be tolerated for any reason. It's incredible that nothing happened until today. Perhaps the Wizards should change their name back to the Bullets.
It is my belief that the Wizards will never be a winning organization. Accepting thug-like behavior transcends the team and crumbles a positive foundation. In business, there are rules, procedures, policies and guidelines in place that set the tone and culture for all employees. It's not the written word that defines the culture but the actions that support it. How does your organization live up to its mission and core values? Many of you have them on the wall in the reception area or in the hallways. Are they for show or are all levels walking the talk?
It's hard to do the right thing because we've become jaded by headlines like these. Go back to basics, blow the dust off your values statement and set the right foundation for your organization. You'll be surprised at the results.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Here's to the Good Folks of Sports!
It's taken a couple extra days to compose this year end blog. I want to end on a good note. There are many players, coaches and executives out there that embody the good in sports and really are role models. To help put this together, I've asked my friends, David Kot, Ken Glenn, Melissa Squarcia and Patrick Curry to participate. I appreciate their efforts and have noted their input below. Keep in mind, any of these folks could fall from grace (see Tiger Woods) at any time. This is based on what we know. In general, I've selected people who provide inspiration to others and help them achieve at higher levels.
Roger Barta, Head Football Coach for the Smith Center, KS Redmen
Coach Barta has coached the Smith Center Redmen for over 30 years compiling a 289 - 58 record. His team has won eight state championships in a town of less than 1,500. His team had a record 80 game winning streak broken in the 2009 championship game. Coach Barta and his team are the subject of a great read: Our Boys: A Perfect Season on the Plains with the Smith Center Redmen by Joe Drape. Coach Barta is a great teacher and has led by example all his life. Read the book, it will all make sense.
Kris O'Dowd, Center, University of Southern California
Kris is a late addition to my list but no less worthy. I was watching ESPN while wrapping presents on Thursday when I saw the story of twelve year old Jake Olson. Jake is twelve and has battled cancer since his birth. It took his left eye when he was one. Over the next 12 years, the cancer came back 8 times. Finally, he had to have his right eye removed. Jake played center for his flag football team and became friends with Kris O'Dowd Southern Cal's center. He came to practices and O'Dowd took him under his wing. Kris was there before the surgery and has provided support since then. Kudos for looking beyond himself and understanding the impact he can have as an athlete. Follow the story on ESPN.
Tony Dungy, Retired Football Player and Coach
This is a good man, was a great coach, and now is the official rehabilitator of wayward athletes. He is a wonderful man who has shown us the pain of losing a son to suicide and knew when to hang it up. He continues to teach us right from wrong. My friend, Patrick Curry, lobbied hard for him. Coach Dungy needs to be careful not to get overexposed.
Toby Gerhart, Running Back, Stanford Cardinal
My friend Ken Glenn is passionate about this guy. The east coast didn't see much of Toby, but he has compiled impressive statistics over his four year at Stanford. He came in second in the Heisman and finished first in rushing yards (1,726) and touchdowns (26). He won numerous awards for football and plays baseball for the Cardinal. He will graduate in 2010 with a Management Science and Engineering degree. You get the feeling he can do anything he puts his mind to. He seems humble and focused. Keep an eye on this young man!
Derek Jeter, Shortstop, New York Yankees
He will go down as one of the most admired players in the history of baseball. Even Red Sox fans have to admire the "Captain." He set the Yankee record for hits this year in addition to having one of his best seasons. He is a person who goes out every day and hustles, works hard and achieves results. He will be a first ballot hall-of-famer. He also runs the "Turn 2 Foundation" and has given out over $10 million since 1996 to kids programs in Kalamazoo, MI, New York and Tampa. These grants help kids "turn 2" a more positive lifestyle.
Charlie Manuel, Manager, Philadelphia Phillies
He is a personal favorite. He has no airs and few expectations other than to win. He wants his ballplayers to hustle and think every play. I was one of the first to boo the decision to hire him in 2004. Boy, was I wrong! He has taken on sportswriters and members of his team when they don't perform or make the effort. The results, three straight years of playoffs, two trips to the World Series and a World Championship in 2008. He guided the team to the World Series in 2009 having to contend with a slumping Jimmy Rollins, the death of Harry Kalas, and a bullpen held together with rubber bands and bailing wire. Great leadership from a great man.
Michael Oher, Offensive Tackle, Baltimore Ravens
His life story (to date) is detailed in the book and movie, "The Blind Side" by Michael Lewis. His story is incredible. He is one of 13 kids left by his parents to fend for themselves. He gets taken in by a wealthy family who raises him to be a good kid and excellent football player. The Tuohy's of Memphis probably deserve their own posting. He proves that a positive attitude, hard work, and the help of others will help bring success. He was the 23rd pick in the 2009 draft by the Ravens. He played college ball at Ole Miss.
Tim Tebow, Quarterback, University of Florida
My initial thought is he's too good to be true. His performance and leadership to date are unparalleled. He has led the University of Florida to a national championship in 2008. He came back in 2009 for his senior year and played well. He is a great student, athlete and person. His eye black with scripture readings is the real deal. My friend Melissa Squarcia made the suggestion and convinced me to add him to the list. Good choice!
Ed Thomas, Deceased, Football Coach, Aplington-Parkersburg High School (Iowa)
We read about Ed Thomas with great sadness last summer when an ex-football player came and shot Coach Thomas. He died of his wounds. He is hailed as a hero in his community by leading the effort to bring the town back after a tornado in 2008. He won 292 games in 37 seasons. He was more than a coach, he was role model for the kids and the town. Follow this link to the story in Sports Illustrated. Indeed, a good man down.
Kay Yow, Deceased, Basketball Coach, North Carolina State Women's Team
Kay won 737 games over a 38 year career as a women's basketball coach. She won 680 games for the lady Wolfpack. She fought a valiant bout against cancer for over 20 years but it ultimately took her life in January. She coached nearly to the end as she took a leave of absence in early January and died January 24th. She is a hero to all that played for her. She taught women how to win and showed all of us how to live. Her moving farewell brought over 1,400 mourners to tears and cemented her reputation as a teacher, motivator, and ultimately healer. Rest in peace. See the video on youtube.
There are thousands of people making a difference every day, these are but 10 that made my list. So many are in the shadows that is takes a tragedy to uncover their impact. There are role models for all of us. Be one yourself!
Here's to a great 2010. Thank you for following this blog and the comments I've received. We'll pick it up in January. Happy Holidays to all!
Roger Barta, Head Football Coach for the Smith Center, KS Redmen
Coach Barta has coached the Smith Center Redmen for over 30 years compiling a 289 - 58 record. His team has won eight state championships in a town of less than 1,500. His team had a record 80 game winning streak broken in the 2009 championship game. Coach Barta and his team are the subject of a great read: Our Boys: A Perfect Season on the Plains with the Smith Center Redmen by Joe Drape. Coach Barta is a great teacher and has led by example all his life. Read the book, it will all make sense.
Kris O'Dowd, Center, University of Southern California
Kris is a late addition to my list but no less worthy. I was watching ESPN while wrapping presents on Thursday when I saw the story of twelve year old Jake Olson. Jake is twelve and has battled cancer since his birth. It took his left eye when he was one. Over the next 12 years, the cancer came back 8 times. Finally, he had to have his right eye removed. Jake played center for his flag football team and became friends with Kris O'Dowd Southern Cal's center. He came to practices and O'Dowd took him under his wing. Kris was there before the surgery and has provided support since then. Kudos for looking beyond himself and understanding the impact he can have as an athlete. Follow the story on ESPN.
Tony Dungy, Retired Football Player and Coach
This is a good man, was a great coach, and now is the official rehabilitator of wayward athletes. He is a wonderful man who has shown us the pain of losing a son to suicide and knew when to hang it up. He continues to teach us right from wrong. My friend, Patrick Curry, lobbied hard for him. Coach Dungy needs to be careful not to get overexposed.
Toby Gerhart, Running Back, Stanford Cardinal
My friend Ken Glenn is passionate about this guy. The east coast didn't see much of Toby, but he has compiled impressive statistics over his four year at Stanford. He came in second in the Heisman and finished first in rushing yards (1,726) and touchdowns (26). He won numerous awards for football and plays baseball for the Cardinal. He will graduate in 2010 with a Management Science and Engineering degree. You get the feeling he can do anything he puts his mind to. He seems humble and focused. Keep an eye on this young man!
Derek Jeter, Shortstop, New York Yankees
He will go down as one of the most admired players in the history of baseball. Even Red Sox fans have to admire the "Captain." He set the Yankee record for hits this year in addition to having one of his best seasons. He is a person who goes out every day and hustles, works hard and achieves results. He will be a first ballot hall-of-famer. He also runs the "Turn 2 Foundation" and has given out over $10 million since 1996 to kids programs in Kalamazoo, MI, New York and Tampa. These grants help kids "turn 2" a more positive lifestyle.
Charlie Manuel, Manager, Philadelphia Phillies
He is a personal favorite. He has no airs and few expectations other than to win. He wants his ballplayers to hustle and think every play. I was one of the first to boo the decision to hire him in 2004. Boy, was I wrong! He has taken on sportswriters and members of his team when they don't perform or make the effort. The results, three straight years of playoffs, two trips to the World Series and a World Championship in 2008. He guided the team to the World Series in 2009 having to contend with a slumping Jimmy Rollins, the death of Harry Kalas, and a bullpen held together with rubber bands and bailing wire. Great leadership from a great man.
Michael Oher, Offensive Tackle, Baltimore Ravens
His life story (to date) is detailed in the book and movie, "The Blind Side" by Michael Lewis. His story is incredible. He is one of 13 kids left by his parents to fend for themselves. He gets taken in by a wealthy family who raises him to be a good kid and excellent football player. The Tuohy's of Memphis probably deserve their own posting. He proves that a positive attitude, hard work, and the help of others will help bring success. He was the 23rd pick in the 2009 draft by the Ravens. He played college ball at Ole Miss.
Tim Tebow, Quarterback, University of Florida
My initial thought is he's too good to be true. His performance and leadership to date are unparalleled. He has led the University of Florida to a national championship in 2008. He came back in 2009 for his senior year and played well. He is a great student, athlete and person. His eye black with scripture readings is the real deal. My friend Melissa Squarcia made the suggestion and convinced me to add him to the list. Good choice!
Ed Thomas, Deceased, Football Coach, Aplington-Parkersburg High School (Iowa)
We read about Ed Thomas with great sadness last summer when an ex-football player came and shot Coach Thomas. He died of his wounds. He is hailed as a hero in his community by leading the effort to bring the town back after a tornado in 2008. He won 292 games in 37 seasons. He was more than a coach, he was role model for the kids and the town. Follow this link to the story in Sports Illustrated. Indeed, a good man down.
Kay Yow, Deceased, Basketball Coach, North Carolina State Women's Team
Kay won 737 games over a 38 year career as a women's basketball coach. She won 680 games for the lady Wolfpack. She fought a valiant bout against cancer for over 20 years but it ultimately took her life in January. She coached nearly to the end as she took a leave of absence in early January and died January 24th. She is a hero to all that played for her. She taught women how to win and showed all of us how to live. Her moving farewell brought over 1,400 mourners to tears and cemented her reputation as a teacher, motivator, and ultimately healer. Rest in peace. See the video on youtube.
There are thousands of people making a difference every day, these are but 10 that made my list. So many are in the shadows that is takes a tragedy to uncover their impact. There are role models for all of us. Be one yourself!
Here's to a great 2010. Thank you for following this blog and the comments I've received. We'll pick it up in January. Happy Holidays to all!
Monday, December 14, 2009
Here We Go Again!
I found myself struggling for a topic this week. I was thinking about some of the positives in the sports world and decided that would be my last blog of the year. Yesterday, my son and I sat down to watch the Saints/Falcons game when within minutes, the idea came to me!
On Thursday evening around 10:45 pm, Jonathan Babineaux, starting defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons was pulled over and arrested for possession of 40 grams of marijuana along with some minor vehicle issues like too much tint on his windows, driving without a license, and an expired tag. He will now fall under the NFL's substance abuse policy because he had more than an ounce of marijuana in his possession.
Given this situation, some teams and coaches would sit the player as a statement that this alleged behavior won't be tolerated. Not the Falcons. They played their star lineman against the Saints and he recorded three tackles and a quarterback hurry. Coach Mike Smith of the Falcons had this comment: "First and foremost, anytime one of our guys show up in a negative light, I am and we are as an organization disappointed. With that said, this is a process that the league and the legal system goes through. We are going to let that process run its course."
In other words, Jonathan plays until the League says he can't or he's convicted of possession-whichever comes first. Two issues here: The Falcons should set the standards for their team and what is the example they are setting?
Most organizations have employee handbooks that describes and defines what's right, fair and tolerated. It will also describe the process by which deviations from appropriate behavior will be addressed. I'm sure the Falcons have a similar handbook, made more complicated by the Player's Union. The intent of these handbooks is to set the tone and expectations of an organization. It creates an overall sense of discipline. Once known, most if not all employees follow the rules or work to get them modified if they appear onerous. In the private sector, an employee who was arrested would still be able to work until decisions were made through the legal process. But, an arrest would follow them for a period of time as they filled out applications for credit or a new job. What message are the Falcons sending by allowing him to play? They could have sat him for a quarter, half or the whole game to let the rest of the team know that a player, no matter how good, has a responsibility to the team to be at their best. This certainly means not being arrested!
Good organizations set the tone for high expectations. The Falcons will continue to mire in mediocrity until they get their house in order and instill discipline in the clubhouse.
On Thursday evening around 10:45 pm, Jonathan Babineaux, starting defensive tackle for the Atlanta Falcons was pulled over and arrested for possession of 40 grams of marijuana along with some minor vehicle issues like too much tint on his windows, driving without a license, and an expired tag. He will now fall under the NFL's substance abuse policy because he had more than an ounce of marijuana in his possession.
Given this situation, some teams and coaches would sit the player as a statement that this alleged behavior won't be tolerated. Not the Falcons. They played their star lineman against the Saints and he recorded three tackles and a quarterback hurry. Coach Mike Smith of the Falcons had this comment: "First and foremost, anytime one of our guys show up in a negative light, I am and we are as an organization disappointed. With that said, this is a process that the league and the legal system goes through. We are going to let that process run its course."
In other words, Jonathan plays until the League says he can't or he's convicted of possession-whichever comes first. Two issues here: The Falcons should set the standards for their team and what is the example they are setting?
Most organizations have employee handbooks that describes and defines what's right, fair and tolerated. It will also describe the process by which deviations from appropriate behavior will be addressed. I'm sure the Falcons have a similar handbook, made more complicated by the Player's Union. The intent of these handbooks is to set the tone and expectations of an organization. It creates an overall sense of discipline. Once known, most if not all employees follow the rules or work to get them modified if they appear onerous. In the private sector, an employee who was arrested would still be able to work until decisions were made through the legal process. But, an arrest would follow them for a period of time as they filled out applications for credit or a new job. What message are the Falcons sending by allowing him to play? They could have sat him for a quarter, half or the whole game to let the rest of the team know that a player, no matter how good, has a responsibility to the team to be at their best. This certainly means not being arrested!
Good organizations set the tone for high expectations. The Falcons will continue to mire in mediocrity until they get their house in order and instill discipline in the clubhouse.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
It's Always the Cover Up!
What a week it's been. Every day since Black Friday we have woken up with news of alleged "transgressions" by Tiger Woods. It all began with the accident in the wee hours of the morning. Improbably, Tiger was saved by his wife Elin who "courageously" used a golf club (apparently one was handy) to break the glass in the back of the SUV Tiger was driving when he hit as many immovable objects as possible in his neighborhood. Elin then dragged him out of the car and waited for the paramedics to arrive. I suppose that when you break the glass in the back of a vehicle, it unlocks all the doors so the person "trapped" can get out. Kids, don't try this at home!
It appears the reality is that Tiger had some "transgressions" which he is deeply sorry for and has publicly apologized to his family on his website. In the meantime, we are led to believe he and Elin are re-negotiating their pre-nuptial agreement in an attempt to "save the marriage" so Elin will stay at least two more years. Does this mean she'll be a free agent in 2012?
Let's look at the facts. Tiger Woods wrecked his car at 2:30 in the morning after Thanksgiving. Does anything positive happen when people are out at 2:30? What happened after that appears to be an attempted cover up by the Woods family and advisers to create positive spin and save Tiger's image. Unfortunately, there are folks out there who kept some voice mails that seem to indicate some "transgressions" have taken place.
All this is none of our business. Unfortunately, Tiger and his team have made it our business. They have tried to cover up what really happen. It's the cover up that we can't stand. Athletes, politicians, stars, business tycoons and regular folks have trouble coming clean. Wouldn't Richard Nixon have been better off by explaining that his overzealous re-election team crossed the line and they have been fired?
In business, many feel that others can't handle the truth (see Jack Nicholson in "A Few Good Men"). Instead, we lie, understate, and cover up. Most of us can overcome a mistake or lapse in judgement. None of us can survive a cover up gone wrong. Eventually, the truth survives.
As leaders, we need to create and foster an atmosphere that promotes responsibility and the room for people to make mistakes. If the organization can create that accountability where the person admits a mistake, explains how it will be corrected, and is allowed to move on with their plan-then the organization will thrive. Are you aiding and abetting a cover up or promoting an atmosphere of trust, challenge and openness? Create Tiger's, not Cheetah's!
It appears the reality is that Tiger had some "transgressions" which he is deeply sorry for and has publicly apologized to his family on his website. In the meantime, we are led to believe he and Elin are re-negotiating their pre-nuptial agreement in an attempt to "save the marriage" so Elin will stay at least two more years. Does this mean she'll be a free agent in 2012?
Let's look at the facts. Tiger Woods wrecked his car at 2:30 in the morning after Thanksgiving. Does anything positive happen when people are out at 2:30? What happened after that appears to be an attempted cover up by the Woods family and advisers to create positive spin and save Tiger's image. Unfortunately, there are folks out there who kept some voice mails that seem to indicate some "transgressions" have taken place.
All this is none of our business. Unfortunately, Tiger and his team have made it our business. They have tried to cover up what really happen. It's the cover up that we can't stand. Athletes, politicians, stars, business tycoons and regular folks have trouble coming clean. Wouldn't Richard Nixon have been better off by explaining that his overzealous re-election team crossed the line and they have been fired?
In business, many feel that others can't handle the truth (see Jack Nicholson in "A Few Good Men"). Instead, we lie, understate, and cover up. Most of us can overcome a mistake or lapse in judgement. None of us can survive a cover up gone wrong. Eventually, the truth survives.
As leaders, we need to create and foster an atmosphere that promotes responsibility and the room for people to make mistakes. If the organization can create that accountability where the person admits a mistake, explains how it will be corrected, and is allowed to move on with their plan-then the organization will thrive. Are you aiding and abetting a cover up or promoting an atmosphere of trust, challenge and openness? Create Tiger's, not Cheetah's!
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