Winning...and successful programs

Today's New Haven Register has a feature regarding East Haven's current 18-game losing streak. They haven't won since Thanksgiving 2006. That day, I ran my first Manchester Road Race, and FROZE in the rain. They scored their last win. While I and others have been critical at times of East Haven (I think I said they're the only team worse than the Derby Red Condors), I think this article was pretty positive. Mike Pucci did a good job.

To quote him, "While the ultimate goal of any team is to win, some programs don't always succeed. Lack of numbers and talent, a competitive schedule, and somtimes just bad luck are some of the reasons why a team struggles."

In other circles (read the NVL Blog links in the sidebar), some people await the downfall of programs. These same individuals may be at odds with Pucci's views, whether they be philosophically or personal (again, read the NVL Blog).

Teams have good years, teams have lean years. Maybe I have been overly critical of the East Haven team over this year. Their record might not show it, but those kids apparently have a great attitude (according to their coach, Robert Greenspun).

So, my question, is what really makes a successful program? Winning is a necessity. State titles are nice. However, these are first and foremost teams made up of young men that are students and athletes. Providing these players with opportunities that may not have been possible is a major plus. When coaches care about their players as people first, and the games second, is also a key. For all of those coaches and programs, please keep up the good work. For the nay-sayers of ANY program that puts kids in college, and helps them out, shame on you. Remember folks, these are kids, and win, lose, or draw, the memories last forever...so the lessons taught between the games better be great life lessons.