Oakland Raiders Inspired Talk to Outstanding High School Athletes at CLC

The Oakland Raiders inspired a professor to do research in 2007. Admittedly, 2007, 2008 and 2009 were not very outstanding years for the Oakland Raiders.

In 2010, the future was beginning to look bright. Ups and downs, wins and losses are all a part of the process to move toward excellence.

On Friday, Atty. Pete, former U.S. Naval officer Mr. Larry and I went to a private high school, Christian Life Center, in Houston, Texas to make a motivational speech. The presentation was set up by Atty. Pete, a graduate of Harvard Law School who presently teaches mathematics.

Atty. Pete is fascinated with the research this Bleacher writer has done in sports and mathematics, focusing on the Oakland Raiders and a few retired NFL players. He, too, keeps up and cheers the NFL teams.

It just goes to show us that simple things can often get the attention of brilliant and great men like Atty. Pete who himself was a valedictorian at a New England area high school many years ago.

When asked if he was the valedictorian of his Harvard law class, he chuckled and did not answer. He did, however, make reference to President Obama who served in a leadership position of the Harvard law school publication.

Being honest about the "ups and downs" of moving toward excellence is a good lesson for outstanding athletes who aspire to play professional sports some day.

You win some games, as the Oakland Raiders won three consecutive games in the 2010 season. You lose some games as was witnessed at the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Oakland Raiders. Yes, the Raiders lost on Nov. 21, but don't forget that in 2009, they defeated the same team.

During the talks, the lesson of continuing to pursue excellence was given, even if there may be bumps in the road to excellence. Real champions do not quit. They continue to strive, even when things look bleak.

Turnarounds, victori...

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