Demand Excellence

Excellence isn’t a destination; it’s a daily practice. To Demand Excellence means holding yourself and others to the highest standards in pursuit of progress and purpose. In youth and interscholastic sports, this principle is vital for cultivating environments where athletes, coaches, and administrators thrive. But how does this value translate into action?
Understanding Excellence in Sports and Education
Demanding excellence begins with challenging the status quo. In many youth sports programs, complacency can take root, leading to uninspired coaching, underdeveloped athletes, and stagnant cultures. Excellence calls for a commitment to continuous improvement—in skills, relationships, and character.
For example, consider a high school basketball program where athletes consistently miss opportunities to develop because of outdated training methods. A coach demanding excellence would introduce modern drills focused on agility, teamwork, and game IQ, while also emphasizing academic performance and emotional resilience. This dual approach addresses both performance and personal growth, ensuring that athletes excel beyond the court.
Social and Educational Issues in Youth Sports
One pressing issue is the unequal access to quality coaching and resources. Many underserved communities lack trained coaches and facilities, leaving talented athletes without opportunities to reach their potential. Additionally, the overemphasis on winning at all costs—often seen in travel sports—can erode the educational values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Demanding excellence doesn’t mean prioritizing trophies over growth. Instead, it’s about fostering a holistic approach to success. Coaches and administrators must evaluate their programs with a critical eye: Are they nurturing well-rounded individuals, or simply focusing on short-term wins?
Real-Life Example: Turning Setbacks into Success
Take the example of a youth football team in an economically disadvantaged area. Initially, the team struggled with poor attendance and a lack of focus during practices. The coach, inspired by the DE4L philosophy, implemented new standards:
    1.Structured Practices: Every session included skill development, team-building exercises, and academic accountability checks.
    2. Mentorship Programs: High school athletes volunteered as mentors, creating a pipeline of support and inspiration for younger players.
    3. Parental Engagement: Regular workshops educated parents on fostering discipline and excellence at home.
Within a year, not only did the team’s performance improve, but players also reported better academic outcomes and increased confidence.
Actionable Steps to Demand Excellence
    1. Set Clear Standards: Define what excellence looks like in your program, from sportsmanship to academics, and communicate these expectations clearly.
    2. Provide Training and Resources: Equip coaches and athletes with tools for success, such as workshops on leadership and modern coaching techniques.
    3. Foster a Growth Mindset: Encourage athletes to view setbacks as opportunities for learning. Highlight the power of "yet": “I haven’t mastered this skill…yet.”
    4. Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly assess your program’s strengths and weaknesses. Are your goals aligned with your actions? Are you building future leaders or just temporary winners?
    5. Celebrate Progress: Recognize and reward effort and improvement, not just outcomes. This reinforces the value of hard work and dedication.

Conclusion: Excellence as a Way of Life
Demanding excellence is about creating a culture where growth is non-negotiable, and potential is maximized. In youth and interscholastic sports, this means developing athletes who excel not just on the field but in life. By addressing social and educational disparities, fostering a growth mindset, and setting high standards, we can ensure that every participant—from coaches to players—experiences the transformative power of excellence.
What steps can you take today to demand excellence in your program or community? Let’s work together to build environments where everyone can thrive. - Dr. William R. Goodloe III