Every player I ever coached was asking me the same 3 questions.
They never said them out loud.
It didn't matter what the lineup looked like.
It didn't matter what the scoreboard said.
They just needed to know 3 things.
And every leader, every coach, every parent is being asked the same ones.
Here they are.
Question #1: Can I trust you?
Trust isn't given. It's earned.
You earn it through transparency and honesty not when things are going well, but when things are hard.
How I built it:
• Do what you say you're going to do
• Tell them what they need to hear, not what they want to hear
• Show up the same way whether you're winning or losing
You lose trust fast. You build it slow.
Question #2: Can you make me better?
This one is on you as a leader.
They're not just asking about their swing or their stats.
They're asking: do you see me clearly enough to help me grow?
Question #3: Do you care about me?
This is the most important one. And you can't fake it.
You can't lead anybody if they don't believe you care about them beyond what they produce on the field.
Three questions. No stat tracks them. But they determine everything.
@bamahurin His front toe got caught. This has nothing to do with replacing his feet. I’ve seen this happen at all levels running, fielding, and sliding.
Easton Boozer
2028 SS • Wake Forest HS
Switch hitter has been very impressive. 2 good at bats from the left side, getting on base twice. Single here from the right side. Excellent mover at SS with athletic transfer and release. Easy carry. Plays with great emotion.
@WFHSCoogs
My son got cut from the baseball team because we couldn't afford the uniform and fees. I was sitting in the car outside the field trying to explain it to him when Coach Thompson knocked on the window. "Heard what happened. Kid's got heart. I got an extra uniform from last season that should fit. And the league fees? Already covered it with the booster club." He ruffled my boy's hair and added, "Practice starts Tuesday. Don't be late." The coach's cleats were caked in red dirt. That man didn't just give my son a uniform — he gave him back his confidence. A youth sports coach in dusty cleats saw a kid who needed a chance and handed him one. Faith in humanity restored.
Anonymous
Son…please keep the competitive drive, the fire, and energy. Most importantly keep being a great teammate. Proud of you! 👊I Love watching you and your team compete.
As a ballplayer, this will give you goosebumps
Taking dry swings in the hotel room and laying out your uniform like you were in 12u again
Love this reply from Judge!