4 Final Four Leadership Lessons
Jeff Janssen, Janssen Sports Leadership Center
Being privileged to be at the Final Four in Detroit, I reflected on the various kinds of leaders on North Carolina's men's basketball team. It is interesting to note four different kinds of leaders have emerged for the Tar Heels.
1. TYLER HANSBROUGH - The Relentless and Compelled Leader by Example Tyler is the ultimate Leader by Example. He is the epitome of what it means to be compelled athlete on the Commitment Continuum. He relentlessly pursues every rebound, tirelessly works on all aspects of his game, is highly conscious of his eating habits, always gets the proper rest, takes stretching seriously, and stayed in school for his senior year rather than turning pro because he is on a mission to win a national championship. Although he doesn't say much, he lets his relentless play do the talking and inspires his team by example.
2. MARCUS GINYARD - The Vocal Leader Leading from the Sidelines Marcus is the clearly the team's best Vocal Leader. He brings an infectious enthusiasm to the team. He has a great relationship with each of his teammates and knows how to pick them up when they struggle. Marcus' main challenge though is that he has had to red-shirt this season due a nagging foot injury. He told me recently that he struggled with not being able to contribute physically - but he learned that he still could make a major impact on the team with his leadership.
3. BOBBY FRASOR - The Calm and Steadying Influence Reserve point guard Bobby Frasor brings yet another kind of leadership to the Tar Heels. His calming court presence is a steadying influence on the team. He leads by understanding the game and his role and keeps the Tar Heels on an even keel - especially when the other team goes on a run, Bobby is able to help shut them down.
4.TY LAWSON - The Catalyst and Clutch Performer Finally, Ty Lawson has recently emerged as a go to kind of leader for the Tar Heels. He has stepped up his game this year and has become a reliable and consistent catalyst and scorer for the Tar Heels. He doesn't say much on the court but has become a clutch performer throughout the year and especially during the NCAA Tournament. Early on in his career, he developed the reputation of jokster and someone who was soft when it came to being injured - but now has a sense of urgency about his game and is not willing to let a minor injury hold him or his team back.
Each of these styles and examples of leadership have been critical in helping the Heels advance to the Final Four. Look for Tyler, Marcus, Bobby, and Ty to continue their influence as they try to lead Carolina to a national championship.
To learn how you can invest in character and leadership development as a team captain or leader, click here for information about the Summer of 2009 Team Captain's Leadership Camps. Register by May 1st for a $100 early bird discount!
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