‘Talking Tactically’

with Lachlan Tighe..... 

(a weekly edition, commenced 12/9/2001, of thoughts, observations and commentaries on developments for bowls coaching and competition)

‘… sport leaders – how to do it’

(edition 88  - 2004 of thoughts & observations on lawn bowls)

Apologies for simply copying what appeared in the newspaper this week but it showed why Ian Thorpe is a role model that our sport (people) could well take heed of and it is all about how to carry yourself in victory and defeat and it applies to the bowlers and can be instilled by the people who influence these (younger) bowlers in their various roles.

So what grabbed my attention, well let me share snippets I selected from the article and you do your own interpreting:

‘…in sport, a crucial measure of our national character, inspired leadership, has been sadly lacking.  Adam Gilchrist’s walk in the world cup semi was an exception.  So in the aftermath of Warne and the St Kilda episodes, it was uplifting this week to see a 21 y.o. swimmer Ian Thorpe show all those who seek the limelight, in any field, what leadership and character is all about.

A remarkable young man, Thorpe had already proven he could be modest in success. His focus on achieving his personal best ‘pbs’ . as distinct from winning, has helped create an environment where the Australian swimming team could develop and prosper despite his dominance.

Now Thorpe has set the benchmark for grace in adversity.  He has moved from being a great sportsman with nice manners into a genuine leader.

Despite the withering criticism it has endured, Australian swimming can take credit for creating the culture in which Thorpe and his team mates have thrived.  The community may debate the selection procedure for the Athens Olympics but it’s a minor issue.  More important is that the sport has developed an environment that has managed to produce high achievement and depth of character among its athletes.

Swimming is a sport with no apologies to make.  It has focused on taking talented young people and building their character.

For a country like Australia that is affluent yet seen the decline in community institutions that were the moral compass of the country, it is important to have Ian Thorpe and colleagues in the public eye.  Many parents (and coaches) despair the values imparted by other name players from profile sports for their lamentable behaviour.

Ian Thorpe has shown us all and much older people that real leadership is rising above your instincts.’

I only hope we in bowls look and learn from this marvelous example.

Lachlan Tighe