Lessons Learned from David Ross

David Ross is a catcher for the Chicago Cubs.  This is his second season with the team and it is amazing how quickly he has become a fan favorite.  Last season many were saying he was only here because he is Jon Lester's personal catcher, but this year he has cemented his place as a vital member of the team.  At the beginning of the season he announced that this season will be his last.  As the season winds down, his teammates are taking time to honor his career and his contributions to their team.  It really is remarkable that a player who is a backup and only plays every few days is getting this kind of attention.  Plus, he has only been in Chicago for two years.  To me, this proves that he is a respected member of the team and is highly thought of by his teammates and organization.

During his last regular season game at Wrigley the fans gave him a standing ovation every time he came up to bat.  In on the most touching moments I have seen, the Cubs Manager Joe Madden took him out of the game in the 7th Inning in order for the fans to recognize him once again.  It was a move that caught everyone off guard.

There are many lessons that can be learned from listening to interviews, watching him play and seeing how his organization respects him.  It may be baseball, but sports can teach and prepare us for life if we are willing to learn.  These are my reflections from watching him play this year.

• Focus on family. 
• Cherish the opportunities that come your way and be prepared to make the most of each one.
• Do things the right way.
• Relationships matter.  
• Be a great teammate, there is no excuse.
• Attitude is a choice.  It does not have to be influenced by circumstance. 
• One day the game, the job will be gone.  How do you want to be remembered?