This was a really exciting episode for me personally because I was able to showcase two former players, Joey Stutzman (RB, UWL) and Evan Lewandowski (QB, UWW), both who just wrapped up stellar careers culminating with being named Gagliardi Trophy semifinalists, which is awarded to the Division 3 Player of the Year. In this episode we cover:
- Life as a D3 athlete
- Characteristics of the best coaches
- Why teachers/coaches are so important
- Their life-long friendship with Chicago Bears LB, Jack Sanborn
My takeaways:
- D3 athletes put in just as much time as D1 but just "don't get paid" for it, which is ultimately what makes it so rewarding
- "If you do your job and do it to your best ability and you work harder than the other person, good things will happen" - Joey Stutzman
- When individuals prioritize team goals, their personal goals end up being met as well
- An unintended consequence of impactful teachers/coaches: Leading others into the profession
- The best coaches equip their players with the tools be successful on/off the field
