Speech to the Miners at the University of Texas at El Paso

Hi all. This afternoon Roxana and I had the opportunity to address the women's basketball team at the University of Texas at El Paso. Needless to say it was a very gratifying experience. We shared the floor with a person that survived a car accident caused by a drunk driver. Him along with his wife and two children shared their survival experience with the team. The audience as well as Roxana and I were deeply moved by their story.
I spoke about my injury as well as coping skills, hope, and motivation. Also during the speech we addressed how life can change in the split of a second. The audience was you and energetic. I was humbled to see how my words had caught their attention.
As their season approaches we were ask to talk to them to help the come into focus and motivation for the upcoming games.
They could clearly understood that besides the blessing of being able to play their sport, there are opportunities that present in our lives that should not be taken for granted. I included in my speech my perspective of a team and leadership. I told them that the principles applied in the military for the execution of missions could be applied to the game of basketball. In order to be successful they needed to understand that they have to know each member of the team. They need to be able to know what the other is thinking when no words are spoken. I addressed that regardless of winning or loosing they always needed to play the best game possible. Life is not easy as the games are not going to be easy. But they had to play their best game every time.
At the end they seemed motivated and I think the goal of the event was met. Roxana mentioned something that stuck on them as well as on me. She said "The opportunities of today will define your future".
They named us honorary coaches of the team. I am honored and humbled by the opportunity.
Good luck to the Miners during this season. Go Miners!