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In today’s society there are very few coaches who exemplify the qualities of what a leader should be. For many of these individuals who fall short, it is usually their hubris or greed that causes their inability to maintain success. Lou Holtz is a leader both on and off the field. The reputation he has established for himself, as a coach has followed him in becoming a successful author and football analyst. In addition, he has become a mentor and role model for many young, potential leaders. Lou Holtz is a leader who has dedicated his life to developing all aspects of human character.

Professionally, Lou Holtz was able to rejuvenate Notre Dame Football and bring the program back to its powerful roots in the mid-1980’s. According to Yaeger and Looney (1993), “It was clear from that first home game against Michigan on September 13, 1986 that Holtz had horsewhipped the Irish into being much better” (p. 193). During his term with the Irish, Holtz was in nine bowl games and a national championship. Holtz remained at Notre Dame for a total of 27 seasons. According to Holtz, (1998) “If you want to achieve greatness in anything, you need the same resolves and discipline. You must design a strategy that will take you wherever you want to go” (p. xi). Holtz was a firm believer that without a set agenda or plan of attack, success will not take place on or off the field. Furthermore, Yaeger and Douglas (1993) state, “At the core of his motivational expertise is Holtz’s ability to take simple themes, and expand upon them” (p. 195). Holtz was able to take these theories learned from football and use the same guidelines in all aspects of his life and teachings.

I chose Lou Holtz because not only was he a great leader as football coach but also as father, husband, mentor, and teacher. His ability to use the same principles in one area of his life and use those same ideas in another, successfully, solidifies his place as a great leader of our time. At an age where one may be or should be retired, Holtz continues to influence others by way of his publications and public appearances. Additionally as a football analyst he continues to use his skills and believes to effect the many who listen to him provide daily insight to many of life’s issues. It is evident that he still has passion for the game and respects it for all that it has done for him both personally and professionally.

References:
Yaeger, Don, & Douglas (1993). Under the tarnished dome. New York, New York: Simon & Schuster.
Holtz, L (1998). Winning every day. New York, New York: HarperCollins.