Five Reads for Friday June 24th 2016

Today I am back to posting my five reads for Friday.

Sandburg Coach John O'Malley: The Coach for All Ages Has An Eye for Talent -- MileSplit Illinois

This is an outstanding interview of a great coach. The Sandburg program has become year in year out one of the best in the state and was loaded with talent this year. But I think what resonated with me most about this interview is Coach O'Malley's stories about the culture of his team and the character of his athletes. The stories about how members of the team demonstrated their character whether it was never missing workouts, encouraging others, shoveling elderly peoples driveways, demonstrating their gratitude to others, or using moments of victory to inspire others gave me a fuller appreciation for what made this team special. It reminded me of the Joe Newton quote "It's nice to be great, but far greater to be nice." The funny thing that I have found is, great character is contagious and great character will lead to inspiring performances. I also appreciate what the coach says about college coaches often missing in the recruiting process these essential qualities as times are just easier to measure. Great interview for all sports to read!

Five Essential Questions to Ask Yourself -- Presentation Zen
This topic came up at GAIN this year. To really understand what is going on you need to ask questions. Developing the ability to ask good questions is essential to your success argues Dean James Ryan of the Harvard Ed School.

What College Recruiters Can Teach Your Children -- NYT
Not all kids or even high school athletes get recruited but here are some great points from college recruiters that apply to all kids.

A Dad's Eye View on Scary vs. Dangerous -- WSJ
This article might be behind the WSJ paywall. But if you can get it a good read from Father's Day. 

Closest Thing to A Wonder Drug Try Exercise -- NYT 
A reminder that regular exercise has benefits that go far beyond looking good.