How To Get Second Place

(reprinted from Scholastic Coach, February 1980)

1. Believe that your opponent is unbeatable.

2. Think about the last time you failed.

3. don't have confidence in yourself.

4. Take plenty of rest days. Rest days are just as important as work days.

5. Don't work hard. You might peak too soon!

6. Don't set a goal for yourself. You might not reach it.

7. don't take advice from anybody, particularly ex-champions (They were just lucky).

8. Put lots of pressure on yourself. Feel like the entire outcome of the meet depends on you.

9. Don't study your sport. Rely only on your own experience.

10. Let the coach solve all of your problems. That's what he's paid to do.

11. Stay out late hours, smoke, drink, and party. You need the relaxation.

12. When the season ends, stop training.

13. Hate your opponent. Don't help your teammates. Everyone is your enemy.

14. Don't train intelligently. Just go through the motions during workouts.

15. Finally, be satisfied. You're good enough already.