"It's harder to stay on top than it is to make the climb. Continue to seek new goals." - Pat Summitt.
But that's what she did. She set new goals, conquered obstacles, defeated nay-sayers, and reached the summit. Pat Summitt did more than just win titles. Pat Summitt changed the world of sports for women.
At the young age of 21, Summitt was named the head coach of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville's women's basketball team. Her first season she went 16-8. Two years later, in 1976, Summitt was a co-captain of the U.S. Olympic women's basketball team. The U.S. team won a silver medal that year.
In 1980, she was named the assistant coach of the U.S. Olympic women's team, but did not participate because of the boycott. Four years later, Summitt won a gold medal in the Olympics as the head coach of the women's basketball team.
As the Vol's head coach, Summitt recorded 1,098 wins - more than any other men's or women's basketball coach in Division I history. She also led the Lady Vols to eight national titles between 1987 and 2008. 38 years as the Vols' head coach led to much success for Summitt, but also led to a higher education for her athletes. As for the athletes that finished their eligibility as a Vol: Summitt recorded a 100 percent graduation rate.
With any climb, there are some treacherous waters. In August of 2011, Summitt announced that she was diagnosed with early-onset dementia, "Alzheimer's type." After the 2011-2012 season, Summitt retired from her head coaching position at the University of Tennessee. Before her retirement, Summitt received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama and the Sports Illustrated Sportswoman of the Year.
In response to her climb, fight, and dedication, a statue was dedicated in her honor at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.
On June 28, the world learned of the passing of Pat Summitt. The media has remembered her through her accomplishments, but what I remember is how one woman accomplished so much in a man's world.
As an aspiring sports reporter, I can't thank Ms. Summitt enough for all she did for the sports world. I will never get the honor to talk to such a legend in the sports world, but I can make a statement that lasts forever.
So, thank you for reminding us all that the climb is worth it, and to never settle for just one.
Thank you for never giving up a fight because of fear. Thank you for setting goals for women everywhere to work hard and accomplish our dreams.
Thank you for all your hard work in making women's sports what it is today. Thank you for all the spirit and fun you put into women's sports. Thank you, Pat Summitt.
But, more than anything, thank you for caring about people.
Pat Summitt once said, "Surround yourself with people who are better than you are. Seek out quality people, acknowledge their talents, and let them do their jobs. You win with people."
Winning is one thing, but winning with people is different. Summitt won with people, which made all the difference.
