Matt Bish and Wally Reed explain the importance of a positive outlook while selling tickets for the New Jersey Nets. The Nets are currently mired in one of the worst seasons in NBA history.

Preparation is one of the key elements for success in any endeavor. I firmly believe this and encourage all of my students to plan and explore as many opportunities as possible as they move from one stage in their life to the next. I also believe that some of the best teachers, coaches and leaders in virtually any field come from the experiences of those who have forged ahead of us. As a result, I find myself seeking out advice from my mentors and successful individuals in a variety of fields. In turn, I often am used as a sounding board for my current students as they prepare for their future and even have the privilege of talking with my former students as they advance in their careers as well.

Along those lines, this week’s blog consists of a small portion of a panel discussion at York College of Pennsylvania. The attached video clip focuses on what each panel member feels is important to keep in mind when preparing for success after graduation. It applies to nearly everyone, regardless of their age, major or career aspirations. I hope it will provide you with useful information and points to consider. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and reactions…the panel participants included (as seen on the video from left to right):

• Mr. Bill Nuttall -- Owner & President Golden Viking Sports, LLC (formerly Diadora America)
• Ms. Megan Smith (’04) -- Guest Services & Logistics Coordinator Lowe’s Motor Speedway
• Mr. Matt Guercio -- Coordinator of Game Day Operations & Special Events C.W. Post Campus (Athletic Department), Long Island University
• Mr. Joseph (JW) Cannon -- Sponsorship Manager Brand Marketing ING U.S. Financial Services

I am home from my trip to Kuala Lumpur and it was an amazing trip.  I was teaching for the United States Sports Academy’s ICSC (International Certification in Sport Coaching) program. I met some amazing people and it was clear that some of the qualities that make people successful in the United States are the same qualities that make people successful in other countries (as you can see in this video).  I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Ramlan, the Director General of the National Sports Institute of Malaysia.  We talked about his vision for the Institute, as well as what he looks for when he hires people.  It was very interesting and I am glad I had this wonderful opportunity.

The YCP Sport Management Student Association (SMSA) held their first annual professional panel and charity event on Monday night.  The panel consisted of John Gibson (York Revolution), Brandy Heilman (Commuter Services of Pennsylvania), Jeff Hines (York Water Company), Jim Mustard (York Country Day School) and Jason Peck (jasonfpeck.com & eWay Direct).  Student attendees brought non-perishable food items that will be donated to the York Food Bank and the SMSA donated a $1,000.00 to Olivia’s House in York.  It was a wonderful event and the panel shared some great information.  I will post the video in the next day or two.  Here is an interview I conducted with Jason Peck.

If you know someone who has been affected by breast cancer you should watch this interview.  Dave has authored books on girls/womens athletics in the past.  This book will not only help fill the leadership void it also gives money back to help find a cure for breast cancer.