From Steve’s Library 11/07/2005

I once transferred into a new high school and got spotted during a physical education pick-up game by the varsity basketball coach. He approached me in the locker room and asked me why I hadn’t tried out for the team. I told him I was new and besides I had brought home a “D” on my last report card.  My dad had a rule: anything lower than a “C” meant I couldn’t play sports.  I told the coach I’d try out the following season.

He wasn’t satisfied and gave my dad a call. When I next saw him, the coach said that my dad hadn’t budged. Even after he explained the school policy that allowed kids to play when they had one “D,” my dad stood tall. The coach intimated that my dad was inflexible and that he couldn’t respect a man like that. I never did play for that coach. Even after I brought my grades up, it just didn’t seem right to place myself under the supervision of someone who didn’t respect my dad.

—Steve Farrar

Steve Farrar was the author of many books, including the best-sellers Point Man, Finishing Strong, and Battle Ready: Be Strong and of Good Courage in These Troubled Times.