SPORTS August 3, 2009 Issue

FOLLOW THE LEADER

ERIC NAGER

IN THE UNITED STATES we are in the midst of baseball pennant races and preseason football, and the big question is which coach or manager will make the difference for his team? Perhaps one of the most impressive coaching records was set earlier this summer when Phil Jackson of the Los Angeles Lakers won his tenth National Basketball Association championship, displaying extraordinary leadership qualities. While he has coached such great players as Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, Jackson is still credited with being able to get the most from a disparate group of players and really develop talent.

Scaling things down a bit, I recall a time when I played on a corporate softball team. When I first went out for the team, I was one of the less talented players and didn't get particular encouragement from the team captain. I didn't play often, and performed poorly.

After a couple of years, a new captain took over. He at once made me feel at ease through his friendliness and warmth. He seemed to recognize the good qualities I brought to the team and accepted me unconditionally. As a result, I blossomed under his leadership and led the team in hitting that year.

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