“Leadership”
A term that is at once compelling to all, yet elusive to many.
I’ve always been inspired by leaders and visionaries, both in my private and professional life.
Leaders are those who inspire others to reach higher, to do better and ultimately, to succeed.
South Williamsport, Pa:
This past week, a youth baseball coach from Rhode Island has become an Internet sensation for the inspiring speech he made after his team was eliminated from the Little League World Series.
The beauty of his speech is that it was spontaneous and from the heart.
Players on David Belisle’s team from Cumberland were crying after Monday night’s 8-7 loss to Chicago in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, when he kneeled down and told them they should be proud.
Belisle told the players they were one of the best teams in the world and they had their hometown and the state of Rhode Island jumping with excitement. One YouTube video of the speech had more than 400,000 views by Wednesday morning.
“The only reason why I’ll probably end up shedding a tear is because this is the last time I’m going to end up coaching you guys,” he told his players. “But I’m going to bring back with me, and the coaching staff is going to bring back with me, and you guys are going to bring back something that no other team can provide but you guys – that’s pride. OK? Pride.”
He added: “It’s OK to cry, because we’re not going to play baseball together anymore. But we’re going to be friends forever. Friends forever.”
At the end of the speech, Belisle pulled his players in for a group hug.
“I love you guys. I’m gonna love you forever – you’ve given me the most precious moment of my athletic and coaching career,” he said. “And I’ve been coaching a long time.”
I’m admittedly an emotional person, but after watching the 2 minute video of his speech, it is difficult not to shed a tear, it is that remarkable.
In fact, I’ve embedded the YouTube video of his speech at the bottom of this post. For those of you who cannot access the video from your email, it is worthwhile for you to view it later on the blog itself. I think you’ll be inspired.
This man is a TRUE LEADER.
At Regency Nursing Centers, we instantly recognize and appreciate TRUE LEADERSHIP.
