The demonstration of leadership qualities, such as an encouraging attitude and perseverance, often leads to success and leaves a lasting impact on others. Coaches of all sports play a significant role in the lives of athletes. For instance, one coach majorly improved the accomplishments, history, and values of an Ivy League basketball team. Duke University went from failing to one of the most successful NCAA teams in the time of one coach. Mike Krzyzewski is the coach that helped Duke University basketball obtain many achievements and is continuing to change history. Mike Krzyzewski was involved in sports, specifically basketball, and coaching for a majority of his life. He was born on February 13, 1947 and since he was young has had an influence on others. In high school, Krzyzewski participated in basketball and other sports as well. Krzyzewski then went on to play for West Point Military Academy where he later became a coach. Krzyzewski’s basketball career at West Point included many accomplishments. A major moment during his basketball career is when he “led the 1969 National Invitation Tournament (NIT) as a senior point guard” (“Krzyzewski, Mike,” Biography). Krzyzewski was recognized for all the differences he made for this team. His life of basketball continued with coaching. For instance, “[a]fter …show more content…
"The most important thing of all about Coach K is that he taught me the principles and values that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Those principles and values transcend basketball" (Yaeger). He continues to encourage athletes and improve the lives around him. Krzyzewski teaches athletes how to treat and inspire others. He has held a program called “K Academy” to help athletes with their basketball career, but also teaches them more than basketball. He teaches athletes how to be a leader on and off of the