The difference between winning and succeeding | John Wooden | TED

"dont whine, dont complain, dont make excuses. you get out there and whatever your doing, do to the best of your ability. And no one can do more than that." favorite line

Coach Wooden died at age 99 and was as sharp as a tack to the very end, the world needs more people like him.

I live 3 or 4 miles away from his childhood home. I often ride my bike out there and ponder on the idea that 80 years ago he was looking at the same fields and sky as I am at that very moment. He is an example that greatness can come from anywhere and anyone. Hard work is necessary no matter how easy something comes to you.

To call this man gifted would be an insult. This man was a gift.

Reputation is what people think about you. Character is what you really are. 6:50 never be late. Be neat and clean. Start on time and leave on time. Not one word of profanity. 8:30 Never criticize a team mate, that is a coaches job. 9:12 he shows his pyramid. The top is faith and patience. trust things will work out as they should if you do what you should. 11:53 a set of 3 from dad. 1 Don't whine 2 Don't complain 3 Don't make excuses. Do what your doing to the best of your ability.

I clapped at the end of this.  Such humility from this coach and teacher.  He never spoke a word about his accomplishments.  He only spoke of his students and players deeds.  Amazing

Even at an “advanced” age this man was quick and sharp. He rattled off wisdom at light speed.

I was blessed to spend some time with Coach. My recruiting trip to UCLA was during BB season. The Sports Information Dept., and whoever else thought I should sit next to Coach in Pauley for a nationally televised game. He had an aura, a peace, a serenity about him. Instant comfort. He walked the walk, you could feel it in your soul. A true blessing to spend some time with Coach Wooden. He’s the real deal and an unbending, unquestionable man who walked the walk. I had others who were so special they radiated, but only so many who’s greatness radiated and made you better just with their presence. Jack Nicklaus and Larry Nelson were two others for me. You find others who’s presence makes you better- don’t let go. They’re gifts. Take advantage of those opportunities, whether their teachers, athletes, coaches, industry leaders or the best damn garbageman n town- it takes a team. Surround yourself with those who make you strive to be a better person. FWIW. ❤

I love (and hopefully live) it... "Your reputation is what you're perceived to be, your character is what you really are." ~John Wooden

Met him, by chance...UCLA, he nodded, he knew I was awed , he smiled Oh so slightly, reminded me so much of my father. He’s a good reason I went to UCLA, ... others... Jackie Robinson, Arthur Ashe, Rafer Johnson, Willard Libby, Dr. Birdsell, Albert Hoxie, many, many others... but HE was such a great teacher... I keep his writings next to my Bible....read every night before turning off the light.

"Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there." John Wooden

This man was a great influence on Kareem Abdul Jabbar in addition to Bill Walton. Thank you, John Wooden.

“Failure to prepare is preparation for failure”. My favorite Wooden-ism.

Wow! Wooden was the most lucid and wise 91 year old!

Old people are our treasure which lighten our path

Integrity of character, passion, compassion and humility. Where are these men now?

Wooden is arguably the greatest basketball coach and one of the greatest coaches ever in any sport. Period!

To speak this swiftly on interesting subjects is admirable in a 30 year old. To do it at his age is remarkable.

I just finished reading one of his books "Wooden on Leadership" what a brilliant masterpiece, he is truly invaluable, I wanted to be in his presence reading his philosophy & wisdom. Very intelligent man! May God rest his soul, R.I.P

I was a student at UCLA during the 60's when Mr Wooden was there, outstanding individual who really made a difference in people's lives.