About 8 years ago to this day one of my mentors, Dave MacArthur, tragically passed away at the age of 36.  He was a varsity boys coach at nearby Colby High School and took me under his wing when I was a sophomore at Marshfield Columbus.

One of the greatest traits of leadership is to inspire, and that’s exactly what he did. I will never forget the days we spent in the gym when he pushed me so hard I felt like I was going to pass out. Those times taught me to do the same both on and off the court.

Looking back, it is unbelievable how much Dave has influenced this company, our culture and what we value.  Below is a short story/poem about him that I wrote for his funeral. And, it’s not really about basketball.  It’s about what we strive to do for our players.

Influence

The ability to influence is regarded as one of the greatest traits of leadership. You possessed not only that, but enthusiasm, work ethic, and compassion, which gave you the ability to push people to their potential. I will never forget the days we spent in the Colby gyms. There were days I worked so hard that I didn’t think I could take another shot, and then you pushed me some more. Those times taught me to do the same both on and off the court.

It was always enjoyable to watch your teams play because they were a direct extension of your work ethic and passion for the game. The same qualities you demonstrated on the sideline, your players demonstrated on the floor every time I came to watch. Each game I wanted to put on a Colby uniform and play just 1 minute for you. There is no doubt that your teams would have won state titles.

Even though your time in this world was limited, you made an impact on us that takes many others a lifetime to achieve. I am grateful to have been one of those many lives that you touched. As I continue this life that you influenced me to lead, I only hope that I can teach the way you taught me, and influence the way you influenced me.