Coaches have a unique role because they can change the trajectory of an athlete’s life. From my experience alone I know that coaches can be there for their players as a mentor physically, spiritually, and mentally. They are often there for their athletes in a way that maybe no one else is. I’ve had many coaches that have made significant impacts on my life.

During most of my high school football career I played offensive positions. Coach Steve McCain was the first one to tell me that if I switched to a defensive role, I might get a scholarship to play in college. While I wasn’t too thrilled with that idea, I listened to him and played defense for my senior year, during which I received a scholarship to a Division 1 school.

Coach Fred Barns was my high school basketball coach. He was the first black coach I had in any organized sport; in the South, where racism creates very different cultures between people, he created a place that felt like home. He understood where my black teammates and I were coming from—our background and culture—in a way that other coaches couldn’t. He was able to speak into my life and give me confidence.

Coach Steve Roberts set a precedent that life wasn’t just about football, but about developing a strong character. He made sure that his players were on time, getting good grades, and doing the right things.

Ole Miss’ Coach Hugh Freeze was the first coach I knew who was unashamed to preach the Gospel to his team. He wanted to really capture his athletes’ hearts each season, and often brought in speakers who shared mini devotions with us. This happened to be shortly after I personally gave my life to Christ, so I was incredibly encouraged and inspired by how proud Coach Freeze was to share his faith. Practices were different on his team because he would play worship music on the loudspeaker while we were on the field. He changed the entire culture of our team that year.

Coach Rex Ryan was the first NFL coach to draft me. As a head coach, he helped me truly understand the game and, because of that foundation, I know I can now go anywhere within the NFL and adapt well.

Coaches Mike Caldwell and Coach Johnny Holland have also been great mentors and fellow believers. With these men, I am able to talk about aspects of life that are bigger than the game of football.

I could go on. These coaches are just some of the men who have set a standard for how I live my life today, on and off the field. I’m thankful that I’ve paid attention to their guidance because I wouldn’t be the same man that I am today if I didn’t choose to learn from them.

When Coach McCain asked me to play a defensive role, I really didn’t want to, but if I didn’t trust his wisdom, I probably wouldn’t be in the NFL. I butted heads with Coach Roberts many times when I was really struggling with my character but if he hadn’t persevered to teach me what it means to do right in all circumstances, I wouldn’t have those lessons instilled in me today.

If it wasn’t for these men’s willingness to coach me, I would be a completely different person.

The Bible says only a fool ignores correction:

“Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.” —Proverbs 18:2

But the wise are constantly learning:

“The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.” —Proverbs 12:15

I’m always looking for new ways to grow; no one can last on last year’s success. Whether you have a coach, teacher, or simply someone else that you can learn from, listen to their wisdom. There are people in all aspects of life from whom you can gain wisdom, even your children.

Recently I was struck by my kids’ innocence. As I watched them jump out of the bathtub and run around the house naked and unashamed, I was brought back to the truth of Genesis. To me, this simple scene was another confirmation of the Bible’s truth. I could see in their innocence and lack of understanding that they were just like Adam and Eve in the garden, unburdened by guilt and shame, and simply living in freedom. In the same way, I see the selfish nature of humans at an early age when they fight over who gets which iPad. So even by paying attention to my kids—their good and not-so-good behaviors—I am able to grow.

I aim to be teachable, I never want to stop learning. In every situation and from whomever we interact with, there are lessons to be learned if we are willing to humble ourselves and listen.

—Demario Davis

Demario Davis is a regular contributor to The Increase and will be providing monthly articles and opinions.

Check out Demario’s Increase profile here: http://theincrease.com/author/demario-davis/    

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