Anyone know the name Barry Bonds? A slugger for the San Francisco Giants, he won 6 MVP awards and had a record-setting home run season. After he hit his 660th career home run to tie Willie Mays for 3rd place on the career home run list, Bonds said, "I finally feel like I've accomplished something in the game of baseball."

Now, think about your shining moments. Some of you have athletic achievements, which isn't a bad thing, nor is it a "wrong" answer. Some of you have achievements that you planned for and worked your tail off to accomplish. Also not a bad thing.

The name Saul may ring a bell with you. He was a very accomplished leader in the time of Christ. He achieved many great things in his life. He was at the top of the ladder of society, and life was grand. It took a single encounter with Jesus for him to experience his "defining moment."

Saul wrote that all he'd achieved and amassed before was now worthless. He changed his name to Paul and rededicated his life.

This is what I ask of you now, men. You are not even close to finishing your list of "shining" or "defining" moments. You will never know until the moment has come and you're forced to search deep in your soul. Remember what Beau Tillman said to us, "What if 2020 was to be the foundation upon which we become our best versions of ourselves?"

It all comes back to the relentless pursuit of competitive greatness. Transforming our weaknesses and limitations into strengths. Believing in the process, in ourselves, in something greater than us. Living in the moment and seizing the opportunity. Experiencing the sheer joy of being alive, being right here and now.

At the end of the day, regardless of the outcome, you've all made me proud. Let's get out there and get the job done.

KSHSAA 4A Sub-State 2 Championships @ Chanute High School, Saturday, February 20, 2021