The Mentor Coach Bill Walsh

Today's papers are filled with tributes to the late legendary Coach Bill Walsh--- a truly great coach and greater man. When I was writing The Secrets of Savvy Networking, a friend suggested that there should be a chapter on mentoring and that Coach Bill Walsh should be the focal point. Why? Under his tutelage were born many a college and NFL coach.
Bill Walsh was the Socratic mentor who took pride in the successes of his proteges.

The more I read about the man, the more I was inspired and impressed with his skill, his style, his wisdom and his kindness. Having his endorsement for my book became an obsession and through a circuitous route that was an interesting voyage, he did endorse my book.

As I glance at my "wall of fame" full of the photos of friends, family and fabulous experiences, there on the very top is the quote he sent on letterhead from Stanford Football when he headed their Athletic department.

There is one day on my "voyage" that I will never forget. I was to call his assistant, Jane. So I practiced what I would say if I needed to leave her a voicemail message and placed the call. To my surprise and shock, Coach Bill Walsh answered his own phone! I was so flabbergasted that I stammered and said, "Coach Walsh, my apologies but I never wanted to disturb you but I didn't expect you to answer your phone and I am speechless." He just laughed and said, "Don't worry, you didn't disturb me but why don't you call back in a few minutes when Jane will be here." He could tell I was nervous and he put me at ease.
He defined class.

IF you want to read more about this truly great coach and man, www.sfgate.com

Coach Bill Walsh left us too early but he left a legacy that will live on.

Thoughts for today from a saddened Susan. susan@susanroane.com