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IN THE SPRING I had a chance to hear Coach Bob Davie speak at a leadership luncheon. I will preface the rest of my comments with the disclosure that I am not a fan of professional or college football. I was therefore stunned at how compelling a case Davie made for a community rallying around their university football team.
He recognizes that the majority of the players will not go on to professional football. Rather, the football field is a proving ground to help them develop into better men — many of whom will stay in our community.
He shared the challenges of walking into a program with low morale and little discipline — and laying out strict expectations for all, knowing that many players would walk. And walk they did. Those who remain and who have been recruited have a very clear code of conduct related to building and protecting the Lobo brand. They are being taught that how they behave, help others, treat women and perform academically all contribute to how they represent the team.
It was inspiring and refreshing to hear of these high expectations. It gave me confidence in the value of the football program now and for future spouses, employers and communities of these young men.
As a veteran of many speeches, books and meetings about leadership, I can honestly say that Davie made an unbelievably strong impression with the level of integrity, discipline and commitment that he has brought to the UNM football program.
To paraphrase his words, he said this team does not need you in the seats if we are winning. They need you now. They need to know that this community cares about them as students, players and people.
We cannot have a “win at any cost” culture. The line has been drawn in the sand, and we will stand with Coach Davie. We are getting our season tickets for this reason.
MARISSA NORDSTROM PEREZ
Albuquerque
