One of the lessons that can be learned, and taught, in education based athletics is honesty.
Des Moines Roosevelt volleyball coach Mark Steinbach teaches it by having a “touch policy”. If one of the Roughrider players touches the ball and it goes out of bounds, but it is missed by the official, the player will tell the official even if the ball would have been awarded to Roosevelt.
Last week in a freshman game we were playing, and I was coaching, the official awarded us a ball that we touched last. I told the official that and asked our player if he touched the ball, and he conformed it. The official reversed the call.
Some of my players on our bench said, why did you do that? I said because it was the right thing to do. They smiled and nodded in agreement.
Later in the week, we were playing another game and a ball clearly went off of our opponent but the official missed it and awarded the ball to our opponent instead of to us. The opposing player actually smiled knowing he had touched it and it happened in front of the opposing coach.
Two different responses to the same situation. The point of this is not to judge, and I am not doing that.
You can agree or disagree, and make a case for whatever you believe the right thing to do is, but if honesty, and teaching honesty, is what we’re after, then the response is an easy one.
Meet Todd Gordon, a seasoned educator, coach, and activities administrator who dedicated an impressive 37 years to shaping the lives of students within the realm of education. His career has taken him on a remarkable journey through nine different school districts, ranging from the intimate setting of a small school to the dynamic landscape of a large, multi-high school urban district – truly everything in between.
In 2022, Todd embarked on a new chapter, retiring from his illustrious career in education. However, retirement did not signal an end to his passion for making a positive impact in the realm of sports and activities. Todd joined BOUND, a leading sports software company, where he continues to contribute his wealth of experience and knowledge to support activity administrators and coaches.
Beyond the professional arena, Todd’s personal life is a testament to dedication and enduring love. Married to his wife, Deb, for an impressive 40 years, they have navigated life’s journey together. Their family has grown to include three married children, each on their unique paths, and six delightful grandchildren who bring joy and laughter to their lives.
Todd authored and published his first book, “The Power of One. One Word Leadership”, in 2022.
His newest project is the “The Pursuit”, and it starts with new writings on a new page on this website. Todd delves into the essence of your daily pursuit of excellence, offering insights on growth, resilience, and the power of redemption. By weaving daily Scripture insights into our exploration, we bridge the timeless with the contemporary, inviting you to reflect on leadership principles grounded in spiritual wisdom.
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