[BuckyBalls]

Difference-maker - Sports

I read this in the Lantern about Jim Tressel and Bob Mansfield. Bob is an acedemic assistant for coach and motivates the athletes with his story. There's a statement by Jim Tressel that speaks volumes about why he is so respected. He can motivate the team in ways others can't.

When the football players whine during practice, Tressel has Mansfield tell them his story.

"Many times when the players are whining and complaining about things, as players do, coach Tressel always calls me and says 'Tell them your story,'" Mansfield said. "Maybe they learn to be grateful and to be more appreciative of what they have."

Tressel thinks Mansfield's story helps players gain a new perspective on life.

"Life is about relationships," Tressel said. "He has such a zest for life and does a great job creating relationships with younger people."