When we first started working with the CU Men’s Lacrosse team, the Next
Level staff wanted to implement some strategies to help foster the type
of training culture we knew it would take to be successful. We obviously
wanted an environment that produced stronger, faster, more explosive
athletes. But, beyond that we wanted a culture that would cultivate
effort, competition, and leadership. This is when our “Warrior of the
Week” competition was born.
Every Thursday night our coaching staff selects one athlete to be
crowned the warrior of the week. This is the guy who is going balls
out in the weight room at 6:30 AM. The guy who still has laser like
focus as practice winds down at 10:00 PM. The guy who is constantly
working to not only better himself, but also bring others up to his level.
This is the guy you want to stand shoulder to shoulder with in battle.
Each warrior is rewarded with our selected battle helmet, which is his
for the week. Now…this is no cheap, plastic Halloween costume.
This thing is made of real metal or bronze and is fashioned after what
real warriors would wear in their respective historical era. Our
presentation is made in front of the team and lets everyone know
that “this is the biggest Bad ass of the week!”
This tradition has been great for our athletes, coaches, and overall
program. Competition for this coveted title has already been fierce, and
we expect it to only get better as the fall off-season draws to a close.
Thanks to all of the CU athletes, current and former, who have given their
best, day in and day out. Not just for a symbolic helmet, but more
importantly for their team and the legacy of a great program.
Now that everyone knows what the “Warrior of the week” is all about,
It’s time to recognize our first recipient of the 2012 off-season.
Hayden “Chicago” McClain earned the right to bring home the hat in week
one. Knowing what to expect in his second year of Coach Galvin’s program
has certainly worked in his favor. The entire coaching staff agrees that
Hayden has taken his preparation for the upcoming season to a new level.
And….not just on the field, as his efforts in the weight room, speed training,
and conditioning have been dialed in from day one.
This type of effort, along with attending all optional workouts through
week 2, is exactly the type of leadership we were looking for. Big props
to Mr. McClain for stepping up to the challenge and leading from the front.
