Barry Alvarez as AD spends a lot of time observing teams and coaches. His perspective on Bo Ryan and the men's basketball team at Wisconsin gives great insight into what makes a team successful.
“Our program is what college basketball — college athletics — is all about. It’s about the development of players. It’s about building a .team
“You travel with them, you watch them, those guys know each other, they care about one another and they do what (Ryan) wants, what he expects.”
“People say, ‘When are you going to take it to the next level?’ ” Alvarez said. “Well, I think we’re at that next level.
For those who pledge allegiance to the University of Wisconsin, the two game-ending scripts were eerily similar.
The underdog Badgers are on a national stage, playing a wildly entertaining game.
Their best player has the ball in his hands with time winding down.
A monumental victory is there for the taking.
A crushing finish results in heartache and a lot of second-guessing.
The men’s basketball team lost to Syracuse 64-63 in the NCAA East regional semifinal on Thursday night in Boston in much the same way the football team fell to Oregon 45-38 in the Rose Bowl on Jan. 2.
No one was stung by the losses more than UW athletic director Barry Alvarez, who nonetheless offered some soothing sentiment.
“A lot of people would like to swap where we are,” he said.
The men’s basketball team, coached by Bo Ryan, has been to 14 consecutive NCAA tournaments, the third-longest streak in Big Ten Conference history. The football team, guided by Bret Bielema, has won consecutive league titles, including the inaugural Big Ten championship game, and played in back-to-back Rose Bowls for the second time in program history.
When Alvarez speaks to alumni groups these days, his theme is constant.
“Do not take this for granted, because it’s hard,” he said. “Take a look at some schools that have a bigger stick than we do — that have tradition and history and won championships — who have taken a three-, four-, five-year dip. I’ve seen it all around basketball and football.”
Indiana basketball. Michigan football. There are cautionary tales everywhere.
Something to think about instead of UW point guard Jordan Taylor missing a 3-point attempt with a timeout available and top scorer Jared Berggren waiting to sub into the game, or quarterback Russell Wilson trying unsuccessfully to stop the clock instead of running a final play from the Oregon 25-yard line.
A couple of days before the Sweet 16 loss to Syracuse, Alvarez took stock of the work done by Ryan.
“I couldn’t be more pleased with our basketball program because I know how hard it is to sustain the level,” he said, referring to his 16 seasons as Badgers football coach.
“Our program is what college basketball — college athletics — is all about. It’s about the development of players. It’s about building a team.
“You travel with them, you watch them, those guys know each other, they care about one another and they do what (Ryan) wants, what he expects.”
Like Alvarez, Ryan has won three Big Ten regular-season titles. Like Alvarez, Ryan has heard fans wonder about winning a national championship.
“People say, ‘When are you going to take it to the next level?’ ” Alvarez said. “Well, I think we’re at that next level.
“A national championship? Never even crosses my mind. Now, (if) we get to the Final Four, it will. If we play in a BCS game and we’re ranked No. 2, it would.
“That’s where people get out of whack. Every coach you talk to worries about the next game. You’re not sitting around worrying about a championship.
“That’s how coaches think. If you have nothing invested, you can think other ways.”
For UW fans, the basketball season ended with the same sense of “What if?” as the football season.
But for Alvarez, the latest ending doesn’t diminish a simple reality.
“We’re doing things the right way,” he said of the basketball program. “Bo isn’t worried about it. I’m not worried about perception or someone else’s expectations because they don’t know the day to day. They don’t know the grind.
Read more: http://host.madison.com/sports/columnists/andy_baggot/alvarez-badgers-are-at-that-next-level/article_a13fdfb4-752d-11e1-8111-001871e3ce6c.html#ixzz1q2f68HI9
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Title: "Why Success? Exploring the Pursuit of Achievement and Its Meaning"
Introduction
Success is a concept that has captivated human minds for centuries. It's a pursuit that drives individuals, organizations, and societies to set goals, overcome challenges, and strive for greatness. But why do we seek success, and what does it truly mean? In this article, we will delve into the multifaceted nature of success, explore the reasons behind our relentless pursuit of it, and answer frequently asked questions (FAQs) to shed light on this fascinating and often elusive concept.
The Multidimensional Nature of Success
Success is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it takes on various forms and meanings depending on individual values, goals, and circumstances. Here are some dimensions of success:
1. Personal Fulfillment: For many, success is deeply tied to personal fulfillment and happiness. It's about achieving a sense of purpose and contentment in one's life.
2. Career Achievements: In the professional realm, success often translates to career achievements, such as promotions, accolades, and financial prosperity.
3. Creativity and Innovation: Some individuals measure success by their ability to create, innovate, and leave a lasting impact on their field or society.
4. Contribution to Others: Success can also be defined by the positive impact one has on others, whether through acts of kindness, mentorship, or philanthropy.
5. Personal Growth: Many see success as a journey of continuous personal growth and self-improvement.
6. Legacy and Recognition: For some, leaving a legacy or being recognized for their contributions is the pinnacle of success.
Why Do We Pursue Success?
The pursuit of success is deeply ingrained in human nature, driven by a complex interplay of intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. Here are some key reasons why we seek success:
1. Intrinsic Motivation: Intrinsic motivators, such as personal fulfillment, passion, and a desire to excel, compel individuals to pursue success for the sheer joy of accomplishment.
2. External Validation: Many people seek success as a means of gaining recognition, approval, and validation from others, which can boost self-esteem and social standing.
3. Financial Security: The pursuit of financial success is often driven by the need for security, comfort, and the ability to provide for oneself and one's family.
4. Competition: The human instinct for competition fuels the drive for success, as individuals strive to outperform others and achieve a competitive advantage.
5. Legacy and Immortality: The desire to leave a lasting legacy or be remembered for one's contributions can be a powerful motivator, propelling individuals to pursue success relentlessly.
6. Self-Actualization: Success is intertwined with the journey of self-actualization, where individuals aim to realize their full potential and become the best version of themselves.
7. Social and Cultural Pressure: Societal and cultural norms often place a strong emphasis on success, leading individuals to conform to these expectations.
The Role of Failure in the Pursuit of Success
Failure is an integral part of the journey to success. It is through failure that we learn, adapt, and grow. Here's how failure contributes to the pursuit of success:
1. Resilience: Failure builds resilience by teaching individuals to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to adversity, and persevere in the face of challenges.
2. Learning and Growth: Failure provides valuable lessons and insights, enabling individuals to make better decisions, refine their strategies, and improve their skills.
3. Motivation: Failure can serve as a powerful motivator, igniting a determination to overcome obstacles and prove oneself.
4. Humility: Experiencing failure fosters humility and a realistic self-assessment, helping individuals acknowledge their limitations and areas for improvement.
FAQs About the Pursuit of Success
Let's address some frequently asked questions about the pursuit of success:
1. Is success subjective or objective?
Success is subjective, as it varies from person to person based on individual values, goals, and aspirations. What constitutes success for one person may not be the same for another.
2. Can success be measured quantitatively?
While some aspects of success can be quantified, such as financial wealth or career achievements, many dimensions of success, like personal fulfillment or happiness, are qualitative and difficult to measure.
3. How can one find their own definition of success?
Finding your own definition of success involves self-reflection, introspection, and aligning your goals and values with what truly matters to you. It's a personal journey of exploration and self-discovery.
4. Is there a point at which one can be considered "successful"?
Success is not a destination but a continuous journey. There is no definitive endpoint to success, as individuals may continually set new goals and strive for greater achievements.
5. Can success lead to happiness?
While success can contribute to happiness, it is not a guaranteed path to happiness. True happiness often involves a balance of various factors, including personal relationships, well-being, and a sense of purpose.
Conclusion
The pursuit of success is a deeply ingrained aspect of human nature, driven by a myriad of motivations and aspirations. It is a multifaceted concept that takes on different meanings for each individual. Whether success is defined by personal fulfillment, career achievements, financial prosperity, or leaving a lasting legacy, it remains a powerful force that propels us forward in life. Understanding why we seek success and recognizing its multidimensional nature can lead to a more purposeful and fulfilling journey. In the end, success is not just about reaching a destination; it's about embracing the continuous process of growth, self-discovery, and realizing one's potential.
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