Loss of a Legend: John Wooden's Legacy Will Live On Forever

Coach John Wooden did it all in his 29 seasons as a head coach. 

Wooden was able to transcend a school in UCLA during a time of turmoil in the 1960s into one of the greatest dynasties ever scene in sports.  He is the only coach to lead four undefeated seasons going 30-0.

During a stretch of 12 seasons from 1964 to 1975, Wooden won an astonishing 10 NCAA Championships.  In 1973, he was the first person to ever be honored by the basketball hall of fame as both a player and coach.

The list of accolades and achievements this man received in his 99 years on earth is far too long for this one article.

What's more important is to remember John Wooden for the type of person he was.  First and foremost, he served his country as a Lieutenant in the Navy during World War II.  Just one more characteristic that showed his love and devotion for this country.

Wooden was a devoted Christian who regularly read the bible and attended church.  He believed strongly in his faith and implemented it in how he lived his life.  He made it known that there were more important things in life then just basketball.

After his wife's death, Wooden was comforted by his faith. "I have always tried to make it clear that basketball is not the ultimate. It is of small importance in comparison to the total life we live. There is only one kind of life that truly wins, and that is the one that places faith in the hands of the Savior."

As a coach he accomplished the highest level of success.  Wooden was the type of man that would never gloat or rave about his greatness.  In fact it is the opposite if anything, Wooden was an extremely humble individual.

The legacy and tradition that Wooden made at UCLA will live on forever.  In his family, players, and friends anybody who knew or ever was blessed to meet him has nothing but amazing comments to say what kind of person he was.

The Pyramid of Success is something we all should take a look at and see what improvements we can make to our own lives.  Wooden created this in an attempt to find a way to define success in his own way and to strive to be a better person.

His personal definition was, "Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of being."

Rest in peace Mr. Wooden. You may be gone, but never will be forgotten.