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Stephen Bardo: The Value Of A Coach Knowing Players As Individuals

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Stephen Bardo (stephenbardo.com) first gained fame as a starter on the 1988-1989 “Flyin’ Illini” team that reached the NCAA Men’s Basketball Final Four. Throughout the ‘90s, he played in the NBA, CBA and overseas. He currently serves as a commentator for FOX Sports 1 basketball coverage and presents his Point Guard Vision leadership training to youth and collegiate athletes.

Here, Stephen recalls his high school basketball coach Doug Woolard, as a coach who would fit into the mission of Positive Coaching Alliance. He was more concerned with his players as individuals than he was about winning. "But, he knew that if he got through to us as individuals, winning would be a by-product."

Among the specific acts Woolard took: "making us look him in the eye," running study hall and meeting with parents to ensure their values for their children's development were in alignment with the program's.