June 18, 2010 - FPG
Harnessing the power of visualization and belief to topple a Goliath: 88-0 suddenly turns to 88-1!
Sometimes in the world of college sports all it takes to beat a champion is to believe that you are a champion and to play like a champion. Any loyal Notre Dame fan understands this important message.
On January 14, 1974 the University of Notre Dame demonstrated this belief when they stunned the college basketball world by toppling reigning National Champion UCLA. What made this one point victory special for the Fighting Irish was that the loss marked UCLA’s first loss in 88 consecutive games, and it came at the expense of legendary coach John Wooden.
How were they able to do this? Prior to the game Notre Dame’s coach, Digger Phelps, implemented the following coaching techniques:
1. Make it Visual: He had the team practice cutting down the nets and celebrate the momentous win four days prior to the start of the game.
2. Make it Behavioral: Throughout the practice week he drilled all of his players to hit shots at unique angles stressing that this was to be the “game winner!” The extra jumpers, runners off the glass, three pointers and two foot lay-ups helped create the right muscle memory for when it really mattered!
3. Make it Emotional: According to John Shumate, an Irish player, “Digger told us at practice the week before the game if you win this game, it will be part of your life for the rest of your life…” Phelps was famous for drawing upon duty to the University and the team’s faith to believe.
So how do these techniques translate into success in today’s competitive business environment? Whether it is a well coached round of role plays, situational exercises, or a candid discussion with your employees about the importance of moving your customers through an emotional connection, these same types of coaching techniques can generate tremendous results for your frontline team — just as they did for the Fighting Irish.
Ken Stellon - Senior Vice President, Frontline Performance Group
