Don't Get Comfortable - Always Have A Backup Plan

It's been a few weeks since the final horn sounded in Houston. The 2011 NCAA Tournament was one of the best in history, filled with upsets, coaches rising to the occasion (Shaka), and a string of exciting finishes. Although the Championship game was quite disappointing (Yes, I was rooting for Butler), the most memorable part of the night for me came in a few post-game remarks by one of the games biggest stars. Reminded of this (in an article I just came across on CNNSI), I thought I would share with all of you, who may have missed it.

Over the past few months, Kemba Walker has become a household name. An incredibly gifted young man, Kemba single handedly led his team through a grueling Big East Tournament and then on to a National Championship title. Today, with little surprise, the junior guard announced his decision to forego his senior year and declare himself eligible for the upcoming NBA Draft. Despite a list of recent accolades and achievements on the court, it's his off court accomplishment I find most impressive.

As I learned in Kemba's post game interview, May 8, 2011 will be no ordinary day for the up and coming superstar. He will not only celebrate his 21st birthday but also attire cap and gown as a member of UCONN's graduating class. Yes, that's right Kemba is graduating and in just three years. I have had the privilege of being a college athlete and have close relationships with many of them, and I cannot imagine the time and dedication it would take to not only play an intense Big East schedule, but also graduate in just three years. This is something that many cannot accomplish in four, without playing a collegiate sport.

So let's recap, Kemba is a Big East Champ, National Champ, a future NBA lottery pick, and now a soon to be college graduate. Amazing accomplishments you may be saying to yourself, and I'm sure that almost anyone would love to be Kemba right now, but how does this apply to you?

Every year at HSBCAMPS, we have the honor of working with hundreds of young men and women in search of their own dreams. Although it is my hope that all of them go on to become the next Lebron James, the reality is that's probably not going to happen. That is why it is so important to ALWAYS HAVE A BACKUP PLAN!

The ability to play basketball even at the highest levels is a gift that can easily be taken away. One wrong step or one bad injury and your dream can quickly come to an end. What would you do? Where would you turn? This is why coaches, teachers, and parents constantly stress the importance of EDUCATION. Kemba is in elite company not just for graduating early but for graduating at all. Think of how many players, athletes, and young men and women limit their opportunities by not taking their schoolwork seriously. Make sure you are not that person and strive to be like Kemba and other collegiate athletes taking things seriously in the classroom. Congratulations and good luck Kemba on a long and bright career in the NBA. Maybe we can get you out to camp one day.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/6258244

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