Reminisces – Sam Cooley, ’69

For the ’69 team, Coach LeBaron was our mentor and a true father figure to us. Floyd dedicated his life to not only making us better basketball players, but better people.

There are so many memories of Coach that I have, but the one that stands out was when he and I discussed the “Captain’s Code.” I think of it often and I believe in it.

“The ability to lead is a wonderful gift, not something to be taken lightly. It is not turned on and off like a water faucet. It is there all of the time. It is in every move you make, every word you say. Leadership is not something that you take out for special occasions, like the game ball.

“Your leadership ability has a telling affect, not only during the game but during practices, in the locker room, in your classes, and among the townspeople. You represent your team, your school, your coach, and of course, yourself. Therefore, you should conduct yourself in a manner befitting a leader of men. Have a friendly word for all of your teammates. Relax with them,but don’t take part in any horseplay that will affect your game or the practice.

“A captain should be proud but not cocky, confident but not boastful. He should be loyal to the team, the school, and above all to himself. Live by the standards that your team has adopted as their own. Believe in them, and your teammates will believe in them. Remember, you can be a s good as you want to be, as a leader as well as a player.”

I take the Captain’s Code out every now and then, and it keeps me grounded. More than anything, this is what Coach means to me.