Sweat, Equity and Faith

Sports set the tone for the man I am today. Through tough battles of competition, where I didn’t know if my body could physically and mentally withstand the anguish, sports built character.

Sports provided lessons of hope and determination that taught me to never give up, regardless of the final score.

These types of life’s lessons came with a great deal of sweat, equity and faith.

It requires faith to believe you can be good in a sport and it requires work to have faith. People may challenge your faith in yourself and say you’re too small, too big, you need more speed, or you’re not the right color.

I remember very vividly people discouraging me from my pursuit of a professional basketball career. Although my dream of playing in the NBA did not come true, I often reflect back on the wonderful experiences I had in basketball.

I was the captain of the 1985 Jacksonville State University basketball team that won a National Championship and 31 straight wins without a loss. I have been able to play on four ‘Hoop it Up’ World Championships, three-on-three basketball teams and was selected as the Army Athlete of the Year during my time enlisted in the military, which prompted my receiving an award from President George Bush.

Many times, through each endeavor, my faith was tested. I continued to believe that through preparation – which involved lots of blood, sweat and tears – that hard work would get me through. It happened not like I had anticipated, but nevertheless, it happened.

As I reflect back to those times, even though they only lasted briefly, they were so very special because what one might call “going through the fire,” or “making the sacrifice.” I was blessed to touch the reward I had worked for all of my life. So, my advice to everyone out there who wants to be an athlete, play on a team or make the starting lineup is this – it all starts with your attitude, believing in yourself, and putting your faith to work.

Until next time, good luck!

Earl Warren is the executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of East Central Alabama and the basketball coach for The Donoho School. Warren was the second leading scorer and starting guard on the Jacksonville State University 1985 NCAA Division II Championship Basketball team. He can be reached at .