Taking a Chance on Potential: What I Learned from Coach Wildman’s Faith in Me

 

On Friday night, South Putnam High School’s football field was rededicated to Coach Mark Wildman, a leader whose influence shaped my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined at the time. As a young athlete in 1986, Coach Wildman took a chance on me, naming me quarterback for the South Putnam team. His belief in me, despite my uncertainties, led us to a pivotal victory—the 1986 IHSAA State Championship. That moment was more than a win on the field; it became a defining moment in my life and leadership journey.

Coach Wildman’s decision to trust me with that leadership role was a critical turning point. I remember feeling the weight of that responsibility, but also the incredible boost in confidence that came from having someone like him in my corner. He didn’t just see me as an athlete—he saw me as someone capable of leading a team to greatness. That faith he showed in me during the 1986 season planted the seeds for my belief in the importance of nurturing leadership potential in others.

For small business owners, this experience holds valuable lessons. Much like Coach Wildman, business owners have the ability to see potential in their team members, even when they may not see it in themselves. The challenge—and the reward—comes from taking a chance on them, just as Coach did with me. It’s about giving others the opportunity to step up, take risks, and grow into leaders in their own right.

Coach Wildman’s leadership style was not about micromanagement or focusing solely on winning at all costs. Instead, he built an environment where trust, resilience, and teamwork flourished. He believed that by empowering his players to take ownership of their roles, we could achieve something greater together. And that belief is exactly what drove us to victory in the 1986 state championship game.

As I stood on the field during the rededication ceremony, the memories of that season came flooding back. The lessons learned on that football field under Coach Wildman’s guidance didn’t just shape my approach to sports—they became the foundation of my approach to business and life. His ability to recognize turning points and guide me through them is something I carry with me in my work today.

For small business owners, this philosophy is key. Your business will face its own challenges and turning points, just like any football team. The real opportunity comes in how you lead your team through those moments. Are you taking a chance on the emerging leaders in your business? Are you giving them the opportunity to step up, take risks, and learn from their experiences? Just like Coach Wildman did for me, you have the chance to create defining moments for the people in your organization.

As I think about the impact Coach Wildman had on my life and the lives of so many others, I realize that his legacy isn’t just about winning championships—it’s about creating a culture of leadership, trust, and growth. And for small business owners, this is a powerful reminder: your legacy won’t be defined solely by profits or market share, but by the people you’ve mentored, the leaders you’ve cultivated, and the opportunities you’ve created for others.

The rededication of South Putnam’s football field is more than just a nod to a great coach—it’s a tribute to a man who understood the power of leadership and the importance of taking chances on others. Coach Wildman’s example continues to inspire me, and I hope it inspires you as well. In your business, take a chance on those around you, invest in their potential, and watch as they rise to the occasion, just as my team did in 1986.

Want to learn more of the story as well as discuss ways of empowering your team, schedule a time to meet here.

2 responses to “Taking a Chance on Potential: What I Learned from Coach Wildman’s Faith in Me”

1. Chris Bombei says:

   09/05/2024 at 2:00 pm

   Love this article!! So well stated my friend!

   Reply
   • chrisarnold says:

     09/05/2024 at 2:42 pm

     Thanks Brother!

     Reply