Many of the top sports coaches gave growth mindset messages to athletes before anyone heard of “growth mindset.” Maybe that’s why they became top sports coaches!
Even though sports quotes are obviously about sports, I find the quotes inspirational for life in general. Here’s a list of my favorite sports quotes from coaches:
“Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.” John Wooden, basketball coach
“It takes time to create excellence. If it could be done quickly, more people would do it.” John Wooden, basketball coach
“Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” John Wooden, basketball coach
“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Darrell Royal, football coach
“It does not matter how many times you get knocked down, but how many times you get up.” Vince Lombardi, football coach
“Football is like life. It teaches work, sacrifice, perseverance, competitive drive, selflessness, and respect for authority.” Vince Lombardi, football coach
“No one has ever drowned in sweat.” Lou Holtz, football coach
“I’ve never known anybody to achieve anything without overcoming adversity.” Lou Holtz, football coach
“Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.” Lou Holtz, football coach
“It is your response to winning and losing that makes you a winner or a loser.” Harry Sheehy, athletic director
“A gold medal is a wonderful thing, but if you’re not enough without it, you’ll never be enough with it.” John Candy in Cool Runnings
“Never underestimate the heart of a champion.” Rudy Tomjanovich, basketball coach
“Build your weaknesses until they become your strengths.” Knute Rockne, football coach
“If you are determined enough and willing to pay the price, you can get it done.” Mike Ditka, football coach
“You’re never a loser until you quit trying.” Mike Ditka, football coach
“Setting a goal is not the main thing. It is deciding how you will go about achieving it and staying with that plan.” Tom Landry, football coach
“Difficulties in live are intended to make us better, not bitter.” Dan Reeves, football coach
“Don’t get mad, get better.” Cindy Bristow, softball coach
“I pray not for victory, but to do my best.” Amos Alonzo Stagg, coach in multiple sports, primarily football
“Be the dream.” John Chaney, basketball coach
What is your favorite sports quote from a coach?
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