I would like to share the following excerpt from the March 2004 issue of Texas Coach Magazine. It is titled “When the world looks at us, what will it see?” and is written by Bob Hoppenstedt, of Wheaton, Illinois.

What qualities did my heart demonstrate? For these are the guide posts; the beacons of our daily activity. They will determine who we are becoming. As Charles Dubois suggested, “The most important thing is this: to be ready at any moment to sacrifice who you are for who you could become.” I believe it’s a matter of becoming more aware of our circumstances, the people around us and, most significantly, how we are responding to them. That heightened awareness, alone, can set in motion the opportunity for growth.

This article was written in honor of Bill Neibch, who passed away on July 29th, 2004. Bill taught me to question my motives. Was I in coaching to win games, to satisfy my ego, or to attempt to have a positive influence on the young people we work with, and therefore, eternity? Every life conveys a message. Often we refer to it as our legacy. Ghandi said, “My life’s my message.” As so it was for Bill. And so it will be for each of us.

Nick Kazantzakis stated that, “True teachers use themselves as bridges over which they invite students to cross; then, having facilitated their crossing, joyfully collapse, encouraging them to create bridges of their own.” Bill realized that sport could be such a bridge, and he also realized that it is a reflection of our society, both the good aspects and the not so good. He realized that we, as coaches, are magnified beyond our individual merits. He knew that the position we put ourselves in as coaches, of and by itself, offers an opportunity to have a positive influence, but only if we conscientiously promote and, more importantly, demonstrate values.

Bill, by way of his actions, showed me that the most important thing is humility, for humility gives you a teachable spirit. The less selfish we are, the more considerate we will be of others. Be faithful in small things and, above all, strive to build positive relationships. Therefore, the constant question is, what am I leaving behind?

Bill taught me not to depend on possessions or position for my identity. Each of us must model integrity. We must have the courage to take a stand that is not popular.

Bill often mentioned that the part of his job he relished the least was when he would have to discipline an athlete for violating our athletic code. He firmly believed in the value of discipline. He agreed with Dr. James Dobson that discipline isn’t something you do to someone; it’s something you do for someone.

In conclusion, a hundred years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove … but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.

Joey McQueen is the Lampasas High School athletic director and the Badgers’ head football coach.