What counts in sports is not the victory, but the magnificence of the struggle.
Joe PaternoRead
They ask me what I'd like written about me when I'm gone. I hope they write I made Penn State a better place, not just that I was a good football coach.
Interpretation
The quote expresses a desire to be remembered for making a positive impact rather than just professional achievements.
Joe Paterno emphasizes the importance of legacy and the impact one has on their community over mere professional accolades. He hopes to be remembered for contributing positively to Penn State, reflecting the value of making a difference in the lives of others rather than just excelling in one's career.
In practice
During a tribute speech, I would use this quote to emphasize the importance of community service.
What counts in sports is not the victory, but the magnificence of the struggle.
I don't think it's fair to 12-, 13- and 14-year-olds to say 'Show us you're a winner right now!' Winning isn't everything. I'll never buy that thing that if a boy loses a football game, he's a loser in life.
My thing was play as hard as you can, don't be stupid, pay attention to details, and have enough guts in the clutch that you're not afraid to make a play. Some things I thought were important for a young man to know.
What is a coach? We are teachers. Educators. We have the same obligations as all teachers, except we probably have more influence over young people than anybody but their families. And, in a lot of cases, more than their families.
The name on the front of the jersey is what really matters, not the name on the back.
When beginning your entrepreneurial journey, acknowledge that you become a product of the five people you spend the most time with. So choose your company wisely.
If you want to make short-term profits from the stock price, then I am a very bad president. But I don't think I'm so bad for maximizing the long-term value of Nintendo.
Nobody remembers that you lost a Super Bowl, they remember who won a Super Bowl.
It all comes back to the basics. Serve customers the best-tasting food at a good value in a clean, comfortable restaurant, and they'll keep coming back.
If you want a solid future, you need to create it. You can take charge of your future only when you take control of your income source. You need your own business.
Success isn't always about greatness. It's about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.
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