College Basketball's White Knight: A Letter From The Coach

The following letter was sent to me:

July 16, 1997

Dear Michael,

    The first thing I have always felt that is necessary in success in any endeavor is organization. I think that things have got to be put together in a logical, yet in a clear way so all participating can understand not only what the objective is but the means to get there. This leads me to the second point I would make which is communication. I think the successful person in any aspect of teaching is always able to communicate thoughts and ideas to those with whom he is working. My third point would be that the successful person in any occupation has studied what others involved in similar pursuits have done that have enabled them to be successful. I hope this will be of some help to you.

Sincerely,

Bob Knight

Basketball Coach

You don't have to tell me what others have said about Bobby Knight (he'll never be "Bob" to me).

I've got this on paper, in a binder which I keep next to my desk in MY CLASSROOM.

I received this letter BEFORE I became a teacher.

At the time, becoming a teacher and coach was as far away from me as the sun is from the earth. I needed some guidance and I reached out to someone who could guide me.

I'll never forget what he gave me.

"And that has made all the difference."--Robert Frost